11 more flu-related deaths reported in NC, bringing state total to 33, officials say
Eleven more flu-related deaths were reported in North Carolina, health officials said Thursday, bringing the state total to 33 so far this season.
The 11 deaths were reported during the week of Jan. 5-11, according to the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services.
Of the total deaths reported, one was a child, four were among those ages 25 to 49, seven were ages 50 to 64 and 21 were 65 and older, the department says.
There were 431 positive test results for the virus in the state last week, the department says. A total of 3,069 have been reported since flu season began on Sept. 29.
At this time last year, 23 flu-related deaths had been reported in North Carolina, the department says.
There were f 203 flu-related deaths in the state last year, the department says, and there were more than 9,000 positive cases of the virus reported.
Flu activity in was “widespread” in the state this week, according to the department.
CAN YOU STILL GET A FLU SHOT?
If you haven’t gotten a flu shot, it’s not too late.
It’s best to get vaccinated by the end of October, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, but getting one in January or later can still protect against the virus.
Everyone at least 6 months old should get the shot with “rare exceptions,” the CDC says.
They should still be available at many doctor’s offices, clinics, health departments and pharmacies, the CDC says.
This story was originally published January 16, 2020 at 1:55 PM.
