SC has biggest spike in flu cases so far this season. Here are the counties hit hardest
South Carolina recently had its biggest spike in reported influenza cases so far this season, the latest state health report shows.
There were 869 lab-confirmed tests reported the week of Dec. 8-14, the latest data available, according to the South Carolina Department of Public Health. That’s a huge jump over the 155 lab-confirmed tests reported a week earlier — and almost as much as the total 875 lab-confirmed tests reported in the state up to that point.
As of the latest report, there have been 2,174 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, 3.3% of patient visits to healthcare providers were for flu-like illness, which is higher than the state’s 3.2% baseline — the flu-like activity level overall was low, DPH says.
Also, the week of Dec. 8, there were 79 influenza-associated hospitalizations reported by 70 hospitals. Again, that was a sizable increase from the 21 influenza-associated hospitalizations reported a week earlier.
There have been 228 flu-associated hospitalizations in the state to date this season.
There have been two influenza-associated deaths in the state this season so far.
SC counties with the most flu
Flu activity is currently considered widespread geographically, according to the DPH. Below is a list of South Carolina counties that reported patient visits for the flu that were above the state baseline for the week.
- York
- Chesterfield
- Newberry
- Lexington
- Dillon
- Horry
- Colleton
- Charleston
- Jasper
Flu vaccine
The DPH earlier this week urged residents to get their annual flu shot as soon as possible in advance of upcoming seasonal and holiday gatherings.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the DPH recommend everyone 6 months and older get an annual flu shot. The specific strains of flu change each year, meaning the vaccine must be updated annually.
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.
This story was originally published December 21, 2024 at 6:00 AM.
