Flu activity surges across North Carolina as respiratory virus season peaks

PITT COUNTY, N.C. (WITN) - Flu activity is increasing across North Carolina as the state enters the peak of respiratory virus season, prompting health officials to urge vaccination and early treatment to prevent serious illness and death.

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services reported the total number of flu deaths so far this season is 11 statewide. State health officials also confirmed the first child death from influenza this season. The child, between the ages of 5 and 17, died in the western part of the state last week.

Health leaders say the number of flu-related deaths so far this season is higher than at this point last year. During the 2024–2025 respiratory virus season, North Carolina recorded 542 flu-related deaths, the highest number since statewide reporting began in 2009.

“This strain this year, some experts are calling it a superbug or superflu” said Kayla Manning, Pitt County Health Department vaccine supervisor and interim director of nursing. “Being protected with the vaccine is our best effort at protecting you from this strain or any other strains that circulate.”

According to NCDHHS, the predominant strain circulating this season is influenza A (H3N2), subclade K, which has spread worldwide and is known to cause more severe illness, particularly in older adults and children.

The surge in cases comes as holiday travel and gatherings increase opportunities for viruses like flu, COVID-19 and RSV to spread. Health officials say vaccination is especially important for people at higher risk of severe illness, including adults 65 and older, children under 5, pregnant women, people with weakened immune systems and those with chronic conditions.

As flu cases rise, Pamlico County Schools announced a temporary move to virtual learning for K-8 students due to widespread illness. High school students will remain on their current schedule, with only students taking exams required to report to campus.

In addition to vaccination, NCDHHS recommends preventive steps such as frequent handwashing, avoiding touching the face, disinfecting commonly touched surfaces, covering coughs and sneezes, and staying home when sick. Officials also recommend wearing a mask around others when experiencing symptoms.

Health officials emphasize the importance of early testing and treatment. Antiviral medications can reduce the severity of flu and COVID-19 when started soon after symptoms appear, particularly for those at higher risk of complications.

Annual flu vaccination is recommended for everyone six months of age and older. But Manning encourages you to check with your provider to see what is right for you. Flu vaccines are available at pharmacies, private medical offices, federally qualified health care centers and local health departments and can be given at the same visit as COVID-19 and RSV vaccines.