North Carolina Flu Deaths Surpass 250 This Season

State health officials report 27 more deaths, including two children, in the latest update.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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North Carolina health officials announced that the state's flu deaths have surpassed 250 so far this season, with 27 additional deaths reported in the past week, including two more children. The total number of flu-related deaths in the state now stands at 263.

Why it matters

The high number of flu deaths in North Carolina this season is concerning, as it exceeds the total from the previous season, which was the highest since 2009. This highlights the severity of this year's flu outbreak and the need for continued public health vigilance and preventative measures.

The details

According to the state's Department of Health and Human Services, the 263 flu deaths include 204 people aged 65 or older, 37 between 50 and 64 years old, 15 between 25 and 49, six between 5 and 17, and one under 5 years old. Last season, the state saw 544 flu-related deaths, the highest number since 2009.

  • As of February 11, 2026, North Carolina has reported 263 flu deaths this season.
  • In the past week, the state reported an additional 27 flu deaths, including two more children.

The players

North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services

The state agency responsible for monitoring and reporting on public health data, including flu-related deaths.

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The takeaway

The high number of flu deaths in North Carolina this season underscores the continued need for public health vigilance, vaccination efforts, and preventative measures to protect vulnerable populations, especially the elderly and young children, from the severe impacts of the flu virus.