North Carolina Reports First Flu Death of 2025-2026 Season
North Carolina health officials have confirmed the state’s first influenza-related death of the 2025-2026 respiratory virus season, signaling the potential for increased flu activity as the winter months approach.
The death involved an adult in western North Carolina who succumbed to complications from the flu during the first week of October, according to a press release issued yesterday by the state’s Department of Health. Details regarding the patient’s age, specific location, or length of illness have not been released. This early fatality underscores the importance of preventative measures, particularly as the flu season typically runs from October to May.
“This is a sad reminder that flu infections can be serious and, in some cases, even fatal,” stated North Carolina State Epidemiologist Dr. Zack Moore. “We encourage everyone to take preventative measures against flu and other respiratory illnesses like getting your yearly flu shot, regularly washing hands, covering your cough and staying home when sick to avoid infecting others.” Flu levels are currently reported as “minimal” nationwide by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, but have seen slight increases in North Carolina, Connecticut, Illinois, and Wisconsin. Meanwhile, six California counties – Contra Costa, Santa Clara, Sonoma, Napa, San Mateo and Santa Cruz – have recently reinstated mask mandates in certain healthcare settings, including nursing homes and dialysis centers, despite previous research questioning the effectiveness of masks in curbing respiratory virus transmission.
Last year, North Carolina experienced its worst flu season since the 2009 H1N1 pandemic, with 544 fatalities recorded. Health officials are urging all residents aged six months and older to receive a flu vaccine and are recommending Covid-19 vaccinations for the same age group, even following recent guideline shifts from the CDC. Residents are encouraged to consult with their healthcare providers regarding the benefits of vaccination.
State health officials will continue to monitor flu activity closely and provide updates as the season progresses, emphasizing the importance of proactive health measures to protect vulnerable populations.
