DURHAM, N.C. – North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) officials have reported widespread flu activity to the Centers for Disease Control. Durham County Department of Public Health (DCoDPH) officials urge all residents who have not yet received a flu vaccination to do so.

“We encourage all of our residents to get their flu vaccinations, but we want to urge those who are at the greatest risk for developing complications from the flu to be vaccinated as soon as possible,” said Dr. Arlene Seña, DCoDPH Medical Director.

As of Jan. 6, 13 deaths in North Carolina have been attributed to the flu. All patients were middle aged adults, some of whom were living with underlying health conditions and had not received a flu vaccination.

Children under 2, pregnant women, senior citizens and residents living with conditions such as asthma, arthritis, lupus, diabetes, cancer, HIV/AIDS, heart or kidney disease or morbid obesity are at greater risk for complications from the flu and are encouraged to get vaccinated.

People who develop flu-like symptoms are urged to contact their provider to have anti-viral medications prescribed. Anti-viral medications can reduce the severity and duration of those symptoms.

Flu symptoms include:

• Fever
• Coughing and/or sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Headaches and/or body aches
• Chills
• Fatigue

In the past, North Carolina’s flu season has peaked in late-January to mid-February so it’s not too late to get vaccinated.

“Annual vaccination for the flu is recommended for everyone at least 6 months and older,” Sena said.
It takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies to develop that protect against the flu virus and that’s why residents are encouraged to take other precautions to safeguard themselves.

To avoid getting sick:

• Get vaccinated
• Wash your hands often with soap and water
• Use alcohol-based hand cleaners
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth
• Avoid close contact with sick people

Vaccinations are available at the Durham County Department of Public Health daily from 8:30-11 a.m. and 1-4:00 p.m. in Lobby 7 in the Human Services Building at 414 E. Main St.

For more information about flu shots or other vaccination services offered by the Durham County Department of Public Health, call (919) 560-7608.

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