9 new flu deaths reported in North Carolina last week
RALEIGH (WTVD) -- North Carolina health officials say there were 9 new flu deaths reported in North Carolina last week - bringing the total for this influenza season to 152.
ABC11 has learned at least 13 of those victims were from Wake County and one is a young child. Most of the people who died were age 65 older. Health officials say the elderly, the very young, and people with compromised immune systems are more vulnerable to severe consequences from contracting the virus.
Medical professionals continue to urge people to get their flu vaccine. Health officials believe the season has hit its peak, but it's not over. There could be a secondary spike.
"A lot of times people will end up letting down their guard, for all intents and purposes, and not take precautions as they should and that can actually cause another spike and more infections will occur," said WakeMed Dr. Tiffany Lowe-Payne. "[The flu] is still here and it's still very important for patients to get immunized. It's very important for patients to make sure they maintain proper precautions."
If you become sick and start experiencing flu-like symptoms, medical professionals say it's important to get into a doctor's office right away. Early antiviral treatment works best.
Learn more at http://www.flu.nc.gov/
