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First child flu death of the season reported in NC; state health officials asking people to get vaccinated

(Logo: NCDHHS)
The state of North Carolina has reported its first child influenza death of the season.

The state of North Carolina has reported its first child influenza death of the season.

State Epidemiologist Dr. Zack Moore says North Carolina has seen a rapid early rise in flu cases in recent weeks.

North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services officials say five adult flu-associated deaths have already been reported in North Carolina during the current flu season.

The last pediatric influenza death in the state was in February 2020.

NCDHHS is recommending everyone 6 months and older get a flu shot. In addition to being the best way to prevent infection with the flu, Moore says vaccination can also make illness milder for those who do get the flu.

Annette is originally a Midwest gal, born and raised in Michigan, but with career stops in many surrounding states, the Pacific Northwest, and various parts of the southeast. An award-winning journalist and mother of four, Annette moved to eastern North Carolina in 2019 to be closer to family – in particular, her two young grandchildren. It’s possible that a -27 day with a -68 windchill in Minnesota may have also played a role in that decision. In her spare time, Annette does a lot of kiddo cuddling, reading, and producing the coolest Halloween costumes anyone has ever seen. She has also worked as a diversity and inclusion facilitator serving school districts and large corporations. It’s the people that make this beautiful area special, and she wants to share those stories that touch the hearts of others. If you have a story idea to share, please reach out by email to westona@cravencc.edu.