Charlotte Private School Reports Major Flu Outbreak

For the first time this season -- signs of the flu are popping up at Providence Day School. This week the school saw the highest absentee rate they've seen all school year. WSOC-TV School Nurses Office

Anne Smyth is the school nurse. She said she's sent at least 30 kids home sick this week. That's about three times more than usual.

"We've just had a lot more absences. A lot more kids coming in with headaches, coughs, and colds," she said.

Dr. Russ Kerns works in the emergency room at Carolinas Medical Center. He said the flu season came late, but it has arrived.

The latest information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in our area shows North Carolina and Mecklenburg County to be one of the hot spots for influenza.

After being hit hard last year during flu season, Providence Day School has been encouraging everyone to wash their hands a couple times a day in hopes of not spreading germs. VIDEO: Flu Season Could Get Worse

But, they're afraid this week is a sign of what's to come.

The CDC said flu activity continues to increase nationwide. Widespread flu activity is reported in 27 states, including North Carolina. South Carolina reports activity in just local areas.