2 children, 56 adults die from flu-related illness as virus continues to spread

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- New data from North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) showed that two children and 56 adults died from the flu since last week.

The two children who died were in the 5-17 age group, NCDHHS says. The majority of adults who died were in the 65 and up age group.

One child was from central North Carolina and the other was from the eastern side of the state.

CDC says flu cases have reached the highest level in 15 years nationwide.

"We at the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services extend our deepest sympathies to the families of these children," said State Epidemiologist Zack Moore, M.D, MPH. "This is a sad reminder that seasonal influenza can be serious and, in some cases, even fatal. If you or your loved ones have not received the flu vaccine this season, please consider doing so to help protect your family and those around you."

Medical professionals are encouraging people with mild symptoms to consider going to an urgent care facility, explaining that it can be quicker and cheaper.

Duke Health reported last week that almost 20 percent of ER visits were for respiratory viral symptoms, which is double to triple what they normally see during non-viral months of the year.

WakeMed Urgent Care Medical Director Dr. Christopher Chao said more than 50 percent of visits across the Urgent Cares are for influenza-like illnesses.

On Wednesday, Families waited for up to an hour and 45 minutes at some points at WakeMed's Children's Emergency Room.

"At any emergency department, we're seeing higher numbers this year and higher severity," said UNC Children's ER Medical Director Dr. Daniel Park.

Yan Xue said her 7-year-old daughter has stayed healthy so far this season, but people around her are getting sick.

"I have a friend, her (whole) family just got flu last week," said Xue.

The CDC recommends all children ages 6 months and older receive a seasonal flu vaccine and an updated COVID-19 vaccine.

Parents should also talk with their healthcare provider about options to protect infants from severe RSV disease, including vaccines for pregnant women during weeks 32 through 36 of pregnancy.

"We know that young children and children with chronic medical conditions, immunocompromised or technology depended - meaning they have tracheostomy tubes or ventilators- those patients are highly, highly susceptible to the flu," said Park.

Multiple doctors believe flu cases are peaking right now.

This fall, for the first time, the FDA granted authorization for a combined flu and COVID at-home test. Dr. Chao said people should get the kind that tests for antigens.

"Not all home tests are the same," said Chao. "There are home tests that are antigens or home tests that are molecular . . . they have different various sensitivity or detection limits so, it's important for the consumer or the patient to know what tests they're getting."