Flu-Related Deaths In North Carolina Reach 200

Last week there were 27 new flu-related deaths reported by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services.

There have been a total of 200 flu deaths in the state so far in a season that could run as late as May. There were 218 in the 2016-2017 season.

According to Sarah Isom, Director of Emergency Response and Communications at the Forsyth County Department of Public Health, the good news is that this season likely peaked in early February. But, she says, people still need to be vigilant. 

“One of the things that we see with viruses is something called antigenic drift," Isom says. "Drift is when there's small changes in the flu virus, and that happens continually over time as the virus replicates, which is normal for a virus.”

Isom says this year's predominant strain of H3N2 is more likely to change over time. This can impact how well the flu vaccine or the body's immune system responds.

The CDC has not yet seen any major flu mutations currently circulating this season, but Isom still recommends getting a flu shot, staying home when sick and regular hand washing.