CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Throughout the respiratory illness season, doctors have been saying that getting the flu shot is the best line of defense.
But according to the CDC, only 44% of children and 45% of adults 18 and older have received their flu shot as of Jan. 5.
The most vaccinated group are adults 65 and older, with nearly 70% having received a flu shot.
In North Carolina, the number of flu deaths have reached nearly 100.
Ninety-five people have died in the state, including seven children.
As WRAL reports, statewide data is showing some positive changes compared to earlier in the season, however. Hospitalizations and positive tests for flu and COVID-19 are lower compared to last week.
Flu hospitalizations are down by 28%.
Local doctors suggest keeping an eye out for the usual flu symptoms as well as weakness, shortness of breath or wheezing.
That’s when you should seek medical attention.
"It's a runny nose, nasal congestion, cough, body aches, fever or chills," Dr. David Rentz, Medical Director for Emergency Medicine at Presbyterian Medical Center, said. "Less likely, but also possible nausea or vomiting with it."
The most vulnerable groups are still young children and older adults, but anyone can get seriously sick if they're not vaccinated against the flu and other respiratory illnesses.