The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) has reported the first flu-related death of the 2025-2026 season. The individual, an adult from western North Carolina, died in early October due to complications from influenza. No further details about the person have been released to protect the family’s privacy.
State Epidemiologist Zack Moore, M.D., MPH, commented on the announcement: “This is a sad reminder that flu infections can be serious and, in some cases, even fatal. 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.”
NCDHHS noted that cases of flu, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are expected to rise in the coming months. Vaccination remains the primary method for preventing severe illness or death from these viruses. Those at higher risk include people over 65 years old, young children under five, pregnant women, individuals with weakened immune systems, and those with chronic health conditions such as asthma or diabetes.
Last year’s respiratory virus season saw North Carolina experience its highest number of flu-associated deaths since the 2009 H1N1 pandemic. Nationally, pediatric deaths from flu also reached their highest levels since that time.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends annual flu vaccines for everyone six months of age or older. COVID-19 vaccination is also advised for those six months and older after consulting with a healthcare provider. RSV vaccinations are recommended for adults over 75 years old, adults aged 50-74 who are at increased risk for severe RSV illness, and pregnant women between weeks 32 through 36 to help protect infants.
Vaccines are available at pharmacies, private medical offices, federally qualified health centers, and local health departments. Uninsured children can receive free vaccines through the Vaccines for Children program. All three vaccines—flu, COVID-19, and RSV—can be given during the same visit.
Early testing and treatment with antiviral medications can reduce the severity of both flu and COVID-19 if started soon after symptoms appear. This is especially important for hospitalized patients or those at high risk for complications. Recently issued Standing Orders by NCDHHS State Health Director Dr. Larry Greenblatt now allow retail pharmacists across North Carolina to test for influenza and begin treatment immediately.
Other recommended preventive steps include frequent handwashing; avoiding touching the face; cleaning commonly touched surfaces; covering coughs and sneezes; staying home when ill; isolating from household members if possible; not sharing personal items; and wearing a mask around others if sick.
For more information about respiratory viruses or how to access vaccines and testing locally, residents can visit https://flu.ncdhhs.gov or https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov. Weekly updates on virus activity statewide are available at https://covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard.
