Height of flu season on the horizon, deaths reported in the Cape Fear

January 24, 2018

Andrew James,

SOUTHEAST NORTH CAROLINA (WWAY) – We know the deadly flu season has hit the Cape Fear. Now it’s led to a death in our area.

A government official in Brunswick County confirms to WWAY a person has died suffering from the flu. The death comes as the state saw nearly a dozen deaths last week alone. We are entering the height of the flu season. It’s turned deadly across the country and across the state.

“Someone that is infected with influenza is going to be contagious before they have symptoms,” said Dr. Brian Lanier.

Dr. Lanier practices family medicine and founded the Promina Health clinic. He also -helps- at area hospitals..and is concerned about what he is seeing.

“Almost everyday it feels like that you’re there, somebody else comes in and they’re diagnosed with the flu,” Dr. Lanier said.

Hospitals like New Hanover Regional have had restrictions for visiting in place since December to reduce flu transmission. Dosher Memorial released a flyer this week restricting visits. Medical centers all across the state and nation are joining In.

“Over at Dosher Memorial the census of patients with the flu has been fairly high,” Lanier said.

Statewide more than 40 people have succumbed to the flu. Deaths in some cases that come quick like for six year old Emily Muth in Cary. Lanier says this current virus severely affects both young and old.

“There’s been a lot of news about how the flu vaccine has not been as effective as it has been in the past few years and that’s probably true,” said Dr. Lanier. “It still has value and I really want to urge people now don’t wait to go out and get your flu vaccine if you haven’t already had it.”

Here are some warning signs and symptoms that you or someone you know could have the flu:

Muscle pain or fatigue
Dry cough
Fever or chills
A runny nose

Even if you have had a shot or plan to get one, Lanier urges folks to follow your general practices to not spread the flu, wash your hands, face and reduce contact between the two during this time of the year.