Home / Health / NC Flu Cases Surge: 12 Deaths Reported Weekly
NC Flu Cases Surge: 12 Deaths Reported Weekly
5 Jan
Summary
- North Carolina reports 12 new flu deaths in one week, total 39.
- Nearly 25% of emergency room visits have respiratory virus symptoms.
- A new flu variant, Subclade-K, is spreading and not vaccine-covered.
North Carolina is experiencing a significant surge in flu cases and other respiratory illnesses, prompting health officials to report 12 new flu-related deaths in the past week, bringing the season's total to 39. This alarming trend has resulted in nearly 25% of emergency room visits exhibiting respiratory virus symptoms, with influenza being the dominant cause.
Health experts note that the current situation mirrors peak levels seen in previous years, with projections suggesting the peak may not occur until late January or mid-February. The spread is partly attributed to holiday gatherings and travel. A concerning development is the emergence of a new flu variant, Subclade-K, which is responsible for most cases and is not covered by the current influenza vaccine.
In response to the outbreak, several hospitals in the Triangle area have enacted visitor restrictions to limit further transmission. Despite the challenges posed by the new variant, medical professionals continue to urge vaccination and emphasize preventive measures. These include frequent handwashing, staying home when sick, and considering mask-wearing in public, especially for those with symptoms.
