CHARLOTTE — North Carolina has reported its first flu-related death of the season.
An adult in the central part of the state passed away due to flu complications earlier this month, according to a release from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services.
Health experts are urging vaccination and early treatment to get ahead of this year’s respiratory virus season.
“This is a heartbreaking reminder of how serious the flu can be,” NCDHHS Secretary Dev Sangvai said. “We encourage everyone to take steps to protect themselves and others this respiratory virus season. Getting vaccinated, staying home when sick, washing hands regularly and covering coughs and sneezes can all help reduce the spread of seasonal illnesses.”
Experts recommend getting vaccinated during the early fall, so your immune system has time to build protection before the virus spreads.
NCDHHS says new flu and COVID-19 vaccines are now available. Experts say these vaccines are especially important for adults who are 65 or older, young children, pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems or preexisting health conditions.
Some families may qualify for free vaccines for children. Visit the NCDHHS website for more information.
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