Flu activity rising in ENC, doctors urge vaccination ahead of holidays

GREENVILLE, N.C. (WITN) - Flu activity is beginning to increase across North Carolina, and health experts warn that the approaching holiday season could lead to more cases.

Dr. Philip Lamptey, chief medical officer of FastMed, says clinics statewide have seen an uptick in flu patients over the past several weeks, although activity remains relatively mild.

According to the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, nine flu-related deaths have been reported statewide this season. Last season, the state recorded 335 flu-related deaths, including 10 children, the third-highest total since broad reporting began in 2009.

State surveillance data also show the percentage of emergency department visits involving influenza-like illness in Eastern North Carolina increased by 0.57% during the week ending Oct. 31.

At ECU Health, Dr. Jacob Pierce, medical director of infectious diseases, says he is beginning to see a handful of flu cases.

“We’re really early in influenza right now, but it does tend to ramp up pretty quickly,” Pierce said.

Both doctors expressed concern about the potential for increased transmission as Thanksgiving approaches, with holiday travel and family gatherings bringing more people into close contact.

In Greenville on Friday, Ricky Coltrain stopped by a medical office for his annual flu vaccination.

“Well, I get it every year. Always have. I feel like it’s a good thing, so I came to get it today,” Coltrain said.

Pierce says now is an ideal time to get vaccinated, particularly for adults 65 and older and people with underlying medical conditions or weakened immune systems.

He also emphasized that the flu vaccine has a long history of being safe and effective and can help prevent severe illness and hospitalization.

Health officials recommend annual flu vaccination for everyone 6 months and older. They also encourage residents to stay home when sick, wash their hands frequently, and seek medical attention early if flu symptoms develop, particularly those at higher risk of complications.