WLOS — Two adults in the western part of North Carolina passed away in October due to complications of influenza, making them the first flu-related deaths of the 2023-24 flu season, as announced by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services [DHHS] on Wednesday.
According to officials, one individual had tested positive for both influenza and COVID-19. To respect the privacy of the families, no further details will be disclosed.
State Epidemiologist Zack Moore, M.D., MPH, stated, “We are aware that both flu and COVID-19 can result in severe complications and, in some cases, fatalities. As flu season progresses while COVID-19 continues to circulate, it is crucial for individuals to receive their annual vaccinations, maintain proper hand hygiene, and stay home when unwell.”
MISSION HEALTH’S URGENT CARE CENTER IN SOUTH ASHEVILLE NOW OPEN
Influenza, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are currently spreading and are expected to surge in the forthcoming months.
Health officials assert that vaccines are the most effective method of preventing severe illness, hospitalization, and death from these infections. Vaccinations are particularly critical for individuals at higher risk of developing severe viral respiratory disease, including those who are 65 years and older, children under the age of 5, expectant mothers, individuals with weakened immune systems, and those with specific medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease, and obesity.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that all individuals aged 6 months and older receive the fall COVID-19 vaccine and seasonal flu vaccine. Additionally, RSV vaccinations are available to offer protection against severe RSV disease to older adults and pregnant women between weeks 32 and 36 of pregnancy in order to safeguard infants. Parents should consult their healthcare provider for other options to protect infants from severe RSV disease.
AFTER 2 NEW MPOX CASES, NORTH CAROLINA OFFICIALS URGE THOSE AT RISK TO GET VACCINATED
Pharmacies, private medical offices, select federally qualified health care centers, and local health departments are offering flu and COVID-19 vaccinations. To locate flu or COVID-19 vaccines near you, click HERE.
In addition to vaccinations, it is essential to take the following precautions to prevent the spread of respiratory viruses:
- Regularly clean your hands with hand sanitizer or soap and water to prevent transmitting viruses to others
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
- Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated
- Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue and promptly dispose of it
- Stay home when unwell, except when seeking medical care or testing, and take measures to prevent infection spread to other household members, which include:
– If possible, stay in a separate room from other household members
– If possible, use a separate bathroom
– Avoid contact with other household members and pets
– Refrain from sharing personal household items such as cups, towels, and utensils
– Wear a mask when in the presence of other individuals
Detailed information on actions that can be taken to safeguard oneself and others can be found HERE.
Symptoms alone are insufficient to differentiate between flu and COVID-19. Early testing and treatment with antiviral drugs can help prevent flu and COVID-19 infections from worsening. Timely treatment is especially crucial for individuals at high risk of severe complications due to age or underlying medical conditions.
For more information on accessing COVID-19 testing and treatment, visit the NCDHHS COVID-19 website.
