RALEIGH, N.C. (NCN News) — The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services announced the first reported flu-related death of the 2026-2027 flu season,
An adult in the central part of the state died due to complications of flu during the first week of October. To protect the privacy of the family, no additional information will be released. NCDHHS is encouraging people to take steps now to protect themselves and their families from seasonal respiratory illnesses.
“This is a heartbreaking reminder of how serious the flu can be,” said NC Health and Human Services Secretary Dev Sangvai. “We encourage everyone to take steps to protect themselves and others this respiratory virus season. Getting vaccinated, staying home when sick, washing hands regularly, and covering coughs and sneezes can all help reduce the spread of seasonal illnesses.”
During last year’s respiratory virus season, North Carolina reported 335 flu-related deaths including 10 pediatric deaths. This is the third highest number of statewide influenza deaths recorded since broad reporting began in 2009.
Annual flu vaccination is recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Professional medical societies including the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Medical Association, and the American Academy of Family Physicians, recommend annual COVID vaccines for all children 6-23 months, children 2-18 years in certain risk groups or if desired, and all adults. Recommendations for specific groups are available at SpreadTheFacts.org.
Vaccination against RSV is recommended for all infants under 8 months (unless the mother received RSV vaccine during pregnancy), and for children 8-19 months in certain risk groups. One-time RSV vaccination is also recommended for adults ages 50-74 at increased risk and all adults age 75+.
Health experts say fall is generally the best time for most people to get vaccinated so their immune systems have time to build protection before respiratory virus activity typically peaks. Flu, COVID-19 and RSV vaccinations are available at pharmacies, private medical offices, some federally qualified health care centers and local health departments. Children who are uninsured can be vaccinated at low or no cost through the Vaccines for Children program, which offers free vaccines to eligible children through 18 years of age. Flu, COVID-19 and RSV vaccines can be administered at the same visit.
North Carolinians can also help limit the spread of respiratory illnesses by:
- Staying home when sick and avoiding close contact with others when possible.
- Washing hands frequently with soap and water.
- Covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or the inside of the elbow.
- Cleaning frequently touched surfaces.
- Improving ventilation and bringing in fresh air when possible.
- Talking with a health care provider promptly if symptoms develop, particularly for people at higher risk of severe illness. Antiviral treatments for flu and COVID-19 are most effective when started early.