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Another flu-related death reported in North Carolina during 'widespread' activity
News & Observer - 1/2/2020
Jan. 2--Another flu-related death was reported in North Carolina, bringing the state total to 10, officials say.
One flu-related death was reported in the state during the week of Dec. 22-28, according to the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services.
Of the 10 deaths reported, nine were among those ages 65 and older, and one was between the ages of 25 and 40.
A total of 603 positive tests for the flu virus were reported in North Carolina last week, officials say, and a total of 1,561 positive tests have been reported since the flu season started the end of September.
North Carolina is one of several states across the nation experiencing "high" flu-like activity, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
During the week that ended Dec. 21, the flu was "widespread" in North Carolina, the CDC says.
UNC Hospitals, including REX in Raleigh, are restricting visitors in response to the flu.
Starting Jan. 6, children under 12 won't be allowed to visit patients, and anyone with flu-like symptoms should not visit unless it's for treatment, the hospital system said in a news release.
The Duke hospital system has had similar restrictions in place since Dec. 20.
There were a total of 203 flu-related deaths and 9,234 positive cases in the state last year, officials say. At this time last year, 13 deaths had been reported.
Is it too late to get a flu shot?
It's best to get a flu shot by the end of October, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, but you can still get one now.
Getting the shot in January or later can still help protect against the flu, the CDC says.
The CDC recommends that everyone 6 months and older get a the vaccination, with "rare" exceptions.
Flu shots should still be available at many doctor's offices, clinics, health departments and pharmacies, the CDC says.
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