ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — North Carolina has recorded its first flu-related death of the season, prompting Buncombe County health officials to remind residents that now is the time to get vaccinated.
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services announced Oct. 8 that an adult in central North Carolina died from complications of the flu during the first week of October. No additional information about the person was released.
The death comes as health officials prepare for another respiratory virus season and encourage residents to protect themselves against the flu, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV.
“Getting vaccinated is one of the most important steps you can take to protect yourself and the people around you,” said Dr. Jennifer Mullendore, Buncombe County’s medical director. “As we head into the respiratory virus season, we encourage everyone to talk with their health care provider about recommended vaccines and take everyday precautions to help prevent illness.”
Last flu season was particularly deadly in North Carolina. The state recorded 335 flu-related deaths, including 10 children. That was the third-highest death toll since the state began comprehensive flu reporting in 2009.
Nine Buncombe County adults died from flu-related complications last season, according to county health officials. Most were 65 or older.
But the flu doesn’t just pose a threat to older adults. County health officials also reported three flu-related deaths among Buncombe County children during the past two flu seasons.
Health officials recommend annual flu vaccinations for everyone 6 months and older. Fall is generally the best time to get vaccinated because it gives the body time to build protection before flu activity typically picks up.
Flu vaccines are available at many pharmacies, doctors’ offices and local health departments. Eligible children can receive vaccines at no cost through the federal Vaccines for Children program.
Vaccines for COVID-19 and RSV are also available, although recommendations vary depending on age, health conditions and other factors. Residents should talk with their health care provider about which vaccines are appropriate for them.
Health officials say there are other simple ways to reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses. Those include staying home when sick, washing hands frequently, covering coughs and sneezes, and regularly cleaning frequently touched surfaces.
People who develop flu or COVID-19 symptoms, particularly those at higher risk of serious illness, should contact a health care provider promptly. Antiviral medications can help reduce the severity of illness, but they work best when treatment begins early.
Older adults, young children, pregnant women and people with certain underlying health conditions or weakened immune systems face a greater risk of serious complications from respiratory viruses.
Residents can find vaccination recommendations and information about respiratory illnesses through the NCDHHS Seasonal Respiratory Virus Hub.
Information about local vaccination services is available at Buncombe County Public Health.