AVERY COUNTY, N.C. — A social media post claimed more than a dozen people died overnight Tuesday due to hypothermia.
The claim comes after a cold front brought temperatures in the mid-30s in the mountains as many continue to recover from the impacts of Hurricane Helene.
THE QUESTION
Did 15 people, including children, die overnight due to hypothermia in Avery County, North Carolina?
THE SOURCE
THE ANSWER
No, 15 people, including children, did not die overnight in Avery County.
WHAT WE FOUND
Avery County EMS says "No one has died from hypothermia," as a post on X falsely claimed.
The post was shared Tuesday morning by Dr. Mollie James of the James Clinic. In that post, James claimed that there were 15 deaths overnight due to hypothermia. She added that there were urgent needs for "Fluid warmer, Blanket warmers, Nebulizers, Albuterol and Budesonide."
Officials with Avery County EMS say that is "completely false at this time."
The post on X garnered 448 thousand views in 8 hours.
Hypothermia can occur when a person is exposed to extremely cold temperatures, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). When exposed to cold temperatures, the body begins to lose heat faster than it is produced.
While hypothermia is most likely at very cold temperatures, it can occur even at cool temperatures (above 40°F) if a person becomes chilled from rain, sweat, or submersion in cold water.
The following are warning signs of hypothermia:
- Shivering
- Exhaustion or feeling very tired
- Confusion
- Fumbling hands
- Memory loss
- Slurred speech
- Drowsiness
Babies may also experience bright red, cold skin, and very low energy.
Experts recommend that if you notice any of the above signs, take the person's temperature. If it is below 95° F, get medical attention immediately.