51 people have died from flu-related illnesses so far in SC, health officials say
Fifty-one people have died of flu-related illnesses in South Carolina so far this season, public health officials say.
Almost 1,500 people have been hospitalized across the state for symptoms related to the flu since the season began at the end of September, according to the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control.
Nationally, public health officials estimate that as of mid-January, “there have been at least 15 million flu illnesses, 140,000 hospitalizations and 8,200 deaths from flu,” the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said.
The CDC’s most recent data shows 54 children around the country have died from flu-related symptoms.
No children have died in South Carolina this influenza season, according to state public health officials.
Total deaths in South Carolina are still below the average 54 for this time of year, according to DHEC. More than half of the deaths so far this year have been people older than 65.
Federal public health officials have not yet released a report on how effective this year’s flu vaccine has been, but do say ”vaccination is always the best way to prevent flu and its potentially serious complications.”
Prescription flu medications been effective against the virus this year, the CDC said. “Almost all of the influenza viruses tested this season are susceptible to the four FDA-approved influenza antiviral medications recommended for use in the U.S. this season.”
This story was originally published January 30, 2020 at 8:52 AM with the headline "51 people have died from flu-related illnesses so far in SC, health officials say."
