RALEIGH, NC — State health officials are urging residents to take extra precaution this flu season as the number of confirmed flu cases and flu-related deaths continue to rise in North Carolina.
The NC Department of Health and Human Services says 17 additional flu-related deaths were reported in the state during the week ending March 4th. That brings the total to 83 flu-related deaths since the start of flu season on October 2, 2016. Officials say the two most recent weekly flu reports have accounted for 33 of those deaths.
Officials say the flu is widespread throughout most of North Carolina, and anyone who has still not received their flu shot should consider doing so. Health officials also urge everyone to take the following precautions to help protect themselves and others from the flu and other viruses:
- Wash hands frequently, preferably with soap and water or an approved hand sanitizer
- Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue and then discard the tissue promptly
- If you are sick with flu, stay home until you have been fever free for at least 24 hours
You can get more information from NC DHHS by clicking here.
