RALEIGH -- Health officials in North Carolina have reported three more people have died from the flu in the latest numbers ending Dec. 23, 2017.
The Department of Health and Human Services reports the latest deaths have raised the death toll for the 2017-2018 flu season to 12.
Of the 12 deaths, half involve people 65 years of age and older. One involved a child between 5 and 17 years old who lived in the central part of the state.
To protect the family’s privacy, the child’s hometown, county and gender were not released.
"We extend our deepest sympathies to the child’s family,” said State Epidemiologist Dr. Zack Moore. “If anything positive comes from this tragic loss, we hope it will be that people understand that flu is a serious illness. Flu vaccination is the most effective protection against flu, and it’s still not too late to get a flu shot.”
Flu symptoms include a 100 degree Fahrenheit or higher fever, feeling feverish, a cough and/or sore throat, fatigue, nausea, vomiting and/or diarrhea, which is most common in children.
To avoid catching or spreading the flu, experts provide the following tips:
- Get vaccinated – it’s not too late.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cough or sneeze into tissues and discard them properly.
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
- Use an approved hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
Visit Flu.nc.gov for more information.