South Carolina is facing a significant surge in flu cases, with the state being identified as one of the two states in the country with the highest number of reported cases, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). During a briefing held by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), it was disclosed that the other state with a similarly high number of cases is Louisiana.
Dr. Martha Buchanan, the Lead Medical Consultant at DHEC, revealed that the state has already recorded 12 flu-related deaths this year. The severity of the situation was further emphasized when the state confirmed its first child flu-related death on December 12th, with the victim being from the Upstate region. State Epidemiologist Dr. Linda Bell refrained from disclosing the identity of the child.
Dr. Buchanan stressed the importance of taking the flu, COVID, and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) seriously, as these illnesses can lead to severe outcomes, including death. She highlighted that while many individuals may experience mild symptoms and recover, certain demographics, such as infants, young children, older adults, pregnant women, and those with chronic medical conditions, are at a higher risk of developing complications.
Furthermore, Dr. Buchanan emphasized the unpredictability of severe illness, stating, ‘Complications can occur even among young and previously healthy people, and it can’t be predicted who will really suffer severe illness just by looking at the person.’
The state has already surpassed last year’s one-week percentage of people seeking medical attention for flu-like illnesses, indicating a more severe flu season. Additionally, the number of hospitalizations has exceeded last year’s peak. This active flu season is concurrent with a surge in COVID-19 cases and an elevated number of RSV cases.
Dr. Buchanan reiterated the importance of preventive measures, noting that the same practices recommended for COVID-19, such as vaccination, mask-wearing, frequent handwashing, and staying home while sick, also protect against the flu virus. She encouraged individuals aged six months and older to get vaccinated against the flu, emphasizing the importance of obtaining the vaccine, particularly during the heightened flu activity.
DHEC has been advocating for vaccinations against all three illnesses, especially during the fall and winter months, and particularly in light of large holiday gatherings. The department has consistently urged the public to prioritize their health and take necessary precautions to mitigate the spread of these illnesses.
