34 new flu deaths reported, bringing state’s total to 140 for season

WILMINGTON, NC (AP) — The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services said Thursday that North Carolina saw 34 new flu deaths last week, bringing the total to 140 for the season.

Flu is a contagious respiratory illness, spread by a virus. Young children and the elderly are at greatest risk from flu and its complications.

According to DHHS, flu-like illnesses now account for 7 percent of hospital visits across the state.

Those worried about the flu or feel that might be at risk, should speak with their doctor about getting the flu shot or other preventative measures.

The total marks the highest one-week figure since flu season began last October.

For the season, there have been 140 flu-related deaths in the state, with 108 of them occurring in the last four weeks. The current total is more than halfway to the mark of 218 deaths in the 2016-17 flu season.