Flu season is slowly approaching, with its peak activity falling between December and February. Even though these are the peak months, the influenza virus can last as late as May. As we have heard many times over the years, health officials often warn us about the influenza virus and its possible deadly outcome.
This is exactly what four families in North Carolina are dealing with this flu season.
According to the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, a total of four people have passed away from the flu. The number of deaths from the flu in North Carolina seem to be worryingly increasing. During the 2017-2018 flu season, 391 deaths were reported. This data comes as a scary shock, with it being the most numbers reported since 2009. Out of the 391 deaths reported this season thus far, 290 of those individuals were 65 and older. The remaining seven were children under 18 years of age. The CDC has recommended any individual over 6 months should receive a vaccination for the flu.
In light of this tragic news, health professionals have stressed the importance of good hygiene, such as consistently washing your hands and sanitizing your area regularly. Small steps such as these, can help stop the spread of the flu.
It’s also important to know some of the symptoms the flu brings.
Symptoms include, but are not limited to:
- chills
- fatigue
- sore throat
- nausea
The earlier an individual can detect they have the flu, the faster they can be treated and prevent fatal effects.