WAKE COUNTY (WTVD) -- State health officials reported on Thursday the first flu death in North Carolina this year.
The death comes as flu activity increased across the state.
Read More: North Carolina seeing increased flu activity
There were already 26 deaths associated with the flu this time last year.
Wake County's Public Health Division Director said deaths may be lower this year because the vaccine is able to target four strains of the virus.
Health officials are still urging people to get vaccinated. The flu season usually peaks in February.