Ten more flu-related deaths reported in NC

Fifty-six people statewide have died of the flu since October, including one infant and two other children under the age of 18. 

Adults ages 25 to 49 continue to be most affected, accounting for 22 deaths in North Carolina, followed by those ages 50 to 64, with 19 deaths. Twelve people 65 or older have died of the flu, as has one infant and two children between ages 5 and 17.

Still, the number of visits to hospital emergency rooms and to physician offices and outpatient clinics for flu-like symptoms declined last week, officials said.

A year ago, 59 people died from flu-related symptoms during the six-month flu season that runs from early October to mid-May. Adults ages 65 or older accounted for 36 of the 59 deaths in 2012-13, and nobody under 18 died from the flu.

High levels of flu activity are expected over the coming weeks as flu season typically peaks during January and February.

The best protection against the flu is a flu shot, which is available for anyone 6 months old or older. It takes at least two weeks to build up a full immunity against the virus.

Hand-washing, coughing into your sleeve and keeping a safe distance from people with flu symptoms are practical ways to help prevent the spread of the flu.