Health Officials Announce First Flu-Related Death of the Season in North Carolina

SPARTANBURG COUNTY, S.C. — Health officials have confirmed North Carolina’s first flu-related death of the 2025–2026 flu season, prompting renewed calls for residents to get vaccinated and take precautions to prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses.

First Flu Death Reported in Western North Carolina

According to the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS), an adult in the western region of the state died last week from complications related to influenza. No additional information about the individual has been released in accordance with privacy laws.

Last year, North Carolina recorded 544 flu-related deaths — the highest total since the 2009 H1N1 pandemic, underscoring how dangerous the flu can be, especially for vulnerable groups such as seniors, children, and those with chronic health conditions.

Officials Urge Vaccination and Precautions

State health officials are urging residents to get their flu shots early to protect themselves and their families as flu activity typically peaks between December and February.

“The best protection against severe flu illness or death is vaccination,” the department said in a statement, adding that widespread vaccination can also help reduce strain on hospitals during respiratory virus season.

Officials also reminded the public to practice the following preventive measures:

• Wash hands frequently with soap and water or use hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your face, particularly your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Disinfect high-touch surfaces like phones, doorknobs, and countertops.
• Cover coughs and sneezes with tissues and dispose of them immediately.
• Stay home when sick and minimize contact with others to prevent spread.

If possible, individuals who are ill should stay in a separate room, use a different bathroom, and wear a mask around others until symptoms improve.

Flu Season Outlook

Public health experts warn that this year’s flu season could be severe due to co-circulating respiratory viruses such as RSV and COVID-19, which can cause overlapping symptoms. Vaccines for all three are now available and encouraged for eligible individuals.

The Saluda Standard-Sentinel encourages readers to share how their communities are preparing for flu season and to learn more about vaccination options through local health departments. Visit SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com for updates on public health advisories and statewide health reports.