ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Influenza cases are surging across North Carolina as the holiday season brings increased travel and family gatherings, prompting state and local health officials to urge residents to get vaccinated and take steps to prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses.
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services recently reported the first pediatric flu-related death of the 2025–26 season. The child, from the western part of the state, died because of complications from influenza. No additional details were released to protect the family’s privacy.
“This is a tragic reminder that flu infections can be serious or even deadly,” State Epidemiologist Dr. Zack Moore said in a news release. “If you or your loved ones have not received the flu vaccine this season, I hope you will consider doing so to help protect yourself and your community.”
State health officials say influenza activity is increasing statewide, with ten flu-associated adult deaths already reported this season. Nationally, 280 children died from flu complications last season, the highest number since the 2009–10 H1N1 pandemic. Nearly 90% of those children were not fully vaccinated, according to federal data.
Locally, Buncombe County officials are emphasizing prevention. Dr. Ginger Poulton, a family physician with MAHEC in Asheville, said vaccination remains the most effective way to reduce the risk of severe illness.
“The holidays are a great time to get together with friends and family. I don’t want your holiday gathering being ruined by everyone getting the flu,” Poulton said.
The flu can be especially dangerous for young children, older adults and people with chronic medical conditions, Poulton said.
Health officials recommend an annual flu vaccination for everyone 6 months and older. The vaccine is updated each year to match circulating strains and can be safely administered alongside COVID-19 vaccines, Poulton said.
Flu vaccines are available through primary care providers, local pharmacies and the Buncombe County Immunization Clinic. The county clinic offers walk-in hours Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 8 to 11:30 a.m., and Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1 to 4:30 p.m., excluding Dec. 24–26 and Jan. 1. Appointments can be scheduled by calling 828-250-5096.
In addition to vaccination, health officials advise residents to wash hands frequently, cover coughs and sneezes, avoid touching the face, clean frequently touched surfaces and stay home when sick. Wearing a mask around others can also help reduce transmission.
Early testing and treatment can lessen the severity of flu infections, particularly in children. This fall, NCDHHS issued standing orders allowing pharmacists at retail locations to test for influenza and provide antiviral treatment when appropriate.
NCDHHS publishes weekly data on influenza, COVID-19, RSV and other respiratory viruses through its Respiratory Virus Surveillance Dashboard. More information on vaccines and prevention is available at MySpot.nc.gov.