North Carolina’s Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) is sounding the alarm due to an increase in flu activity and flu-related deaths. According to the weekly Respiratory Virus Summary Dashboard, there have been 117 flu-related deaths this season, with 51 new deaths reported over the past few weeks.
The dashboard also shows that COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) continue to spread, although RSV levels have decreased in recent weeks. NCDHHS is urging people to get vaccinated and take preventative measures against flu and other respiratory illnesses.
State Epidemiologist Zack Moore emphasized the importance of early treatment with antiviral drugs to prevent respiratory infections from becoming more serious. If symptoms appear, contact a doctor immediately for possible treatment.
The department is particularly concerned about severe illness cases and those at high risk of complications due to their age or medical conditions. NCDHHS encourages people to seek early testing and treatment to protect themselves and their families.
Source: https://abc11.com/post/flu-deaths-nc-respiratory-illnesses-including-rsv-covid-19-increasing-north-carolina-health-officials-sound-alarm/15869094