First flu death of the season in South Carolina reported in the Midlands, officials say
The latest flu season recently started and the South Carolina Department of Public Health said that the Palmetto State’s first flu-associated death of the season happened in the Midlands.
“Sadly, a person from the Midlands region has died from complications due to the flu, becoming our first confirmed influenza-associated death of the season that officially started September 29,” said Dr. Linda Bell, state epidemiologist and director of DPH’s Health Programs Branch. “This is a sober reminder that the flu can be deadly. Unfortunately, we see many deaths, hospitalizations and other serious complications of flu each year in our state.”
Information about the victim’s age was not available.
The best way to stay healthy? Bell said those who get the flu shot, as early as possible, have the best chance of avoiding the virus. Getting the shot sooner is ideal because DPH says it takes about two weeks for the body’s immune system to respond for full protection.
DPH and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that everyone 6 months of age and older get vaccinated.
Preventing the flu is particularly important for people who are at increased risk of complications from the virus, including young children, pregnant women, people 65 and older, and those with chronic health conditions like asthma, diabetes, or heart or lung disease, according to DPH.
However, healthy people also can have serious complications from the flu, health officials said.
“I recommend that all of us who are able get our shot as soon as possible,” Bell said.
In addition to the flu shot, DPH said other preventive methods that protect against the flu and other respiratory viruses include wearing masks, frequent hand washing, and staying home or away from others while sick.
Flu vaccines offered at DPH health department clinics are available by calling 855-472-3432 to make an appointment or go to the DPH website to find the nearest location. More information about preventing the flu is available at the DPH’s flu webpage.
“Regardless of what this season will bring, we can be prepared for significant activity not only from the flu, but respiratory illnesses in general, to include COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV,” Bell said. “Just like with the flu, being vaccinated is the best protection against severe illness from COVID-19 or RSV. People should talk with their health care provider about vaccination for them.”
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This story was originally published October 24, 2024 at 9:39 AM.
