Western NC Adult Dies from Flu Complications as Health Officials Urge Vaccinations
RALEIGH, N.C. — The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services announced Wednesday the first flu-related death of the 2025-2026 flu season, marking an early and sobering reminder of the virus’s potentially fatal consequences.
An adult in the western part of the state died due to flu complications during the first week of October. No additional information about the victim will be released to protect the family’s privacy.
Health Officials Emphasize Preventative Measures
“This is a sad reminder that flu infections can be serious and, in some cases, even fatal,” said 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.”
Health officials warn that flu, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are expected to increase over the coming months. Vaccinations remain the most effective defense against serious illness, hospitalization, and death from these infections.
Last Season’s Devastating Toll
The announcement comes on the heels of North Carolina’s deadliest flu season in over a decade. During the 2024-2025 respiratory virus season, the state reported 544 flu-associated deaths—the highest number since the 2009 H1N1 pandemic.
The previous season also saw tragic pediatric losses nationwide, with 280 flu-related deaths among children—the most since the 2009 H1N1 pandemic. Approximately half of those children had no known high-risk conditions, and 89% were not fully vaccinated against flu.
Who Should Get Vaccinated
Vaccinations are particularly critical for high-risk groups, including:
- Adults 65 years and older
- Children younger than 5
- Pregnant women
- Individuals with weakened immune systems
- People with chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease, and obesity
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend seasonal flu vaccines for everyone six months and older. COVID-19 vaccines are also recommended for individuals 6 months and older, following consultation with healthcare providers. RSV vaccinations are advised for adults 75 and older, high-risk adults aged 50-74, and pregnant women between weeks 32 and 36 of pregnancy.
New Access to Treatment
Last week, NCDHHS State Health Director Dr. Larry Greenblatt issued Standing Orders allowing retail pharmacists statewide to test for influenza and immediately administer appropriate antiviral medications. Early treatment can significantly reduce illness severity, particularly for those at high risk of serious complications.
Where to Get Vaccinated
Flu, COVID-19, and RSV vaccinations are available at pharmacies, private medical offices, some federally qualified health care centers, and local health departments. All three vaccines can be administered during the same visit.
Uninsured children can receive vaccinations at low or no cost through the Vaccines for Children program, which provides free vaccines to eligible children through age 18.
Additional Preventative Steps
Beyond vaccination, health officials recommend:
- Regular handwashing with soap and water or alcohol-based sanitizer
- Avoiding touching eyes, nose, and mouth
- Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces
- Covering coughs and sneezes with tissues
- Staying home when sick, except for medical care
- Isolating from household members when ill
- Wearing masks around others when sick
For more information on respiratory viruses, including vaccine access, testing, and treatment, visit flu.ncdhhs.gov or covid19.ncdhhs.gov. A weekly respiratory virus surveillance summary is available at covid19.ncdhhs.gov/dashboard.
