7 SC counties where flu is the worst so far this season, new state report shows
The new influenza season has begun in South Carolina and so far seven counties have had more viral activity than the rest, a new report shows.
There were 50 lab-confirmed flu tests reported the week of Oct. 13-19, the latest data available, according to the South Carolina Department of Public Health. There have been 151 lab-confirmed tests so far this flu season.
The flu season typically begins in October, but peak activity doesn’t usually start until December and lasts through February.
The data shows that statewide, 1.9% of patient visits to healthcare providers were for flu-like illness, which is below the state’s 3.2% baseline — the flu-like activity level overall was minimal, DPH says.
Also for the week of Oct. 13, there were 13 flu-associated hospitalizations reported by 48 hospitals. There have been 13 flu-associated hospitalizations so far this season.
There has been one flu-related death reported in the state so far this season, according to a Wednesday DHP press release.
“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,” said Dr. Linda Bell, State Epidemiologist and director of DPH’s Health Programs Branch. “Getting vaccinated against this disease is the best way to prevent the flu, and I recommend that all of us who are able get our shot as soon as possible.”
SC counties with most flu
While the state overall had patient visits for the flu below the baseline for the week, there were seven counties that bucked the trend. Below are the seven counties with patient visits for the flu above the state baseline for the week.
- York
- Chesterfield
- Lexington
- Florence
- Horry
- Colleton
- Charleston
Flu vaccine
Flu vaccines are strongly recommended for everyone 6 months and older, with rare exceptions, such as people with specific allergies and children younger than 6 months of age. Preventing the flu is particularly important for people who are at higher risk of complications from the virus, such as young children, pregnant women, people 65 years old and older, and those with chronic health conditions like asthma, diabetes or heart or lung disease.
It can take about two weeks for the body’s immune system to respond to full protection from the flu, so it’s important to get vaccinated as soon as possible, DPH states.
Vaccines are available at offices of healthcare providers and many pharmacies, including national chains. Flu vaccines offered at DPH health department clinics are available by appointment. Call 1-855-472-3432 to make an appointment or go to the DPH website to find the nearest location.
