Flu Deaths Spike Across South Carolina

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The South Carolina Department of Public Health has released new data showing a significant increase in flu-related deaths across the state. From February 1 to February 7, 40 flu-related deaths were reported, bringing the total to 126 so far this season. The Upstate region has been hit the hardest, accounting for 51 of the deaths. Health officials are urging residents to get vaccinated and take precautions as flu activity remains high.

Why it matters

The flu can be a serious and deadly illness, especially for vulnerable populations like the elderly and those with underlying health conditions. This spike in flu deaths in South Carolina is concerning and highlights the importance of public health monitoring and preparedness, as well as the need for residents to take the flu threat seriously by getting vaccinated and practicing good hygiene.

The details

According to the latest data from the South Carolina Department of Public Health, the state has seen 126 total flu-related deaths so far this season. This includes 51 deaths in the Upstate region, 32 in the Midlands, 29 in the Pee Dee, and 14 in the Lowcountry. In just the past week from February 1 to February 7, there were 40 additional flu-related deaths reported. During that same period, 169 flu-associated hospitalizations were reported by 47 hospitals statewide, and the state saw 1,413 confirmed flu cases.

• From February 1 to February 7, 40 flu-related deaths were reported around South Carolina.
• So far this flu season, there have been 23,214 confirmed cases of the flu in the state, resulting in 3,871 hospitalizations.

What’s next

Health officials are urging all South Carolina residents to get their flu vaccine as soon as possible to help protect themselves and their communities from the ongoing threat of the flu virus.