Mumps Cases And Flu Related Deaths Climb In NC

CHARLOTTE, NC — Health officials are warning residents to be cautious as the number of mumps cases and flu related deaths continue to climb in North Carolina.

So far this year seven cases of the mumps have been reported in NC, and at least three of those cases were in Watauga County. Officials say the other cases were reported in Wake and Orange Counties.

State public health officials are reminding people to make sure that they are up to date on their vaccinations.

The mumps is a contagious virus that can lead to swelling and pain in the salivary glands. Although it is most common in children ages 5 to 14, officials say the rate among young adults has increased over the last two decades.

Officials are also warning people to be cautious as flu season comes to a close.

The Department of Health and Human Services says four more people died from the flu last week. That brings the total number of flu related deaths to 193 so far this year.

Officials say there were only 59 deaths during the entire flu season last year.