NCDHHS: 63 flu-related deaths reported in one week

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- The State Health Department is strongly encouraging folks to get the flu vaccine, warning that while flu cases could be peaking right now there could be a second peak later in the season.

The State released new data today and it shows there were 63 deaths in just a one week time period. That brings the total so far this season to 134 people, which is nearly double last year's total at this time.

Parent Sabiya Kilcher is trying to take precautions to keep her kids safe.

She says so far, her family has been lucky and they've only dealt with the common cold.

Kilcher has a friend who faced a scary situation.

"Her little one just got pneumonia, so I was like, 'Oh my goodness,'" said Kilcher. "But we haven't experienced it."

Eyewitness News spoke Dr. Alok Patel from ABC News Medical Unit.

He says the variant this year is packing a greater punch and people could be spreading the virus without even knowing it.

"We are heading into what is already a terrible flu season," said Patel. "In some cases, before you even get those symptoms, you could be feeling run down. Your body might feel a little sluggish. We call this a prodromal before the virus really takes shape. And in this time period, you could also still be really contagious."

Patel is encouraging folks to stay home if they feel sick and for them to take advantage of available tools.

"A friendly reminder that we now have tests available at urgent cares, at doctor's offices to test for influenza. This can help you kind of determine what you should be doing if you do have influenza," said Patel.

NCDHHS says the majority of the flu-related deaths this season are people age 65 and older.

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