NC Division Of Public Health: Don't Forget The Flu

With news of the coronavirus flooding the airwaves, less mentioned are seasonal illnesses like flu. During the week ending February 29, the flu claimed the lives of 11 North Carolinians. The Division of Public Health reports that 10 were seniors. That brings the total statewide death toll for the current season to 127. 

There was some good news, with the number of reported flu cases in the state falling for the third consecutive week to roughly 4,000 from its peak of about 7,000 cases early last month.

But Influenza Epidemiologist Anita Valiani warns threats from the flu remain.

“We're still seeing a lot of emergency department visits in our hospitals with flu,” says Valiani. “We're seeing a lot of testing with influenza. It's still really all across the state, there's a lot of activity. So, if you're sick with a respiratory illness, we know respiratory illnesses spread rather quickly, so you should stay home.”

She adds that people should practice good hand hygiene, washing them often, and wipe down contacted surfaces in the home and out in public. Those experiencing flu-like symptoms should seek medical care. 

Flu season typically runs from October through May.