Duke restricts visitors as NC flu deaths reach 8

RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — Duke University Health Systems is restricting patient visitors because of the rising number of flu cases even as public health officials say a third person in Guilford County has died from the illness.

The Department of Health and Human Services says that brings the total number of flu deaths across North Carolina so far this season to eight.

Meanwhile, Duke began Monday restricting patient visitors to immediate family or designated caregivers age 18 or older who have no flu-like symptoms such as fever or cough.  The restriction is in effect at hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers.

Flu season typically peaks during January and February. Complications can be particularly dangerous for high risk groups including infants under 2, pregnant women, and people with conditions such as asthma, diabetes and heart disease.

For more information on flu and to find out where you can get a flu vaccination in your community, visit www.flu.nc.gov.

See more about influenze under our Special Section.

WSOC