CHARLOTTE, N.C. — For the first time since the pandemic began in 2020, more people in North Carolina are being treated for the flu than COVID-19.
North Carolina health officials reported 722 flu hospitalizations for the week ending on Dec. 23. The number of flu-related deaths statewide has now reached 30. Most of those who died were older adults, but health officials say more than a dozen children have been hospitalized with the flu.
This is all according the new state health data released this week.
One state health specialist says it’s not surprising who’s been affected, saying age, underlying health issues and the lack of vaccination are all contributing factors to flu hospitalizations and deaths.
When it comes to the other respiratory illnesses — specifically RSV and COVID-19 — COVID-19 cases continue to rise but health officials believe RSV has now peaked for the season .
Doctors across the country are echoing the same message.
“Set yourself up for success getting vaccinated," Dr. Marc Sala, an ICU doctor in Chicago, said. "General germ theory precautions, wear your mask, wash your hands, avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth when you’re in public and I think those are the best things you can do to help stay out of the hospital, the ICU and protect your loved ones.”
Flu cases officially surpassed COVID-19 cases in mid-December.
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services says this trend could continue as the flu typically peaks in January and February.
Contact Destiny Richards at drichards5@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.
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