Flu
Influenza virus and related health updates
Latest stories
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Stay home and use these remedies to kick that winter cold
A runny nose, scratchy throat, and deep cough can make even simple daily tasks feel miserable. While there’s no instant cure for the common cold, Consumer Reports says there are several effective ways to ease symptoms and recover more comfortably at home.
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Backyard flock in Franklin County tests positive for bird flu
The North Carolina Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services says a 'backyard flock' has tested positive for High Path Avian Influenza (HPAI) in Franklin County.
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From frostbite to flu, avoid the ER by knowing winter's risks
Stay safe this winter by understanding common seasonal health risks and protect yourself to avoid unnecessary emergency room visits.
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UNC Health hospitals start temporary visitor restrictions as flu season escalates
UNC Health's Triangle-area hospitals started temporary visitor restrictions on Monday.
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Duke Health, WakeMed, UNC Health report sharp spike in flu cases
Flu cases at Duke Health more than doubled in a single week. A Duke Health doctor noted that a lower vaccination rate is contributing to a more severe season than last year.
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Flu season alert: Avoid serious illness with these 4 simple steps
There’s no guarantee that you won’t be one of the millions of people to get the flu this year. But there are simple steps you can take to reduce your risk of getting seriously ill.
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Duke Health begins limiting visitors due to rise in respiratory illness cases
The Duke University Health System stated that hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers will temporarily limit patient visitations, effective Tuesday, Jan. 6. The release added that the restrictions will be reviewed if and when respiratory illness cases decline.
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Vaccine safety meeting underscores divide between parents and doctors
Federal officials review vaccine safety as parents and pediatricians in North Carolina weigh trust, rising measles and flu risks, and renewed debate over the childhood vaccine schedule.
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Cape Fear Valley joins WakeMed in limiting hospital visitors, will require masks in waiting rooms
Cape Fear Valley Hospitals will require masks in all waiting rooms and ban visitors under the age of 12 beginning on Christmas Day.
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North Carolinians urged to get flu shots as new strain spreads nationwide
As a new, potent flu strain sweeps across the U.S., health officials in North Carolina emphasize the importance of getting vaccinated.
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North Carolinians urged to get flu shots as new strain spreads nationwide
As a new, potent flu strain sweeps across the U.S., health officials in North Carolina emphasize the importance of getting vaccinated.
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Over 9,000 turkeys tested positive for 'bird flu' will not affect Thanksgiving, state says
Turkeys in Wayne County texted positive for High Path Avian Influenza (HPAI), the first case for commercial poultry in the state since January 2025. Prior to this, North Carolina had 14 commercial flocks and 12 backyard flocks impacted by avian influenza.
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Is it the flu, COVID, just a cold?
Flu, COVID-19, the common cold and RSV have similarities, but they differ in their severity, contagiousness and symptoms. Vaccines are available for COVID-19, the flu and RSV. However, there is no cure for the common cold.
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State: 307 people have died from flu-like illnesses this season in NC
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) reported there have been 307 flu-related deaths to this point in the flu season in our state.
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New law allows pharmacists to test for and treat the flu
The new law essentially makes pharmacies a one-stop-shop for those who get sick with the flu.
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New law allows NC pharmacists to test, treat flu without prescription
House Bill 67 will save families time and money, keeping them from having to get a physician or urgent care to write a script, then go to a separate pharmacy to fill it.
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Pharmacies can test & treat flu cases immediately this flu season, NC Department of Health says
According to the order, pharmacists will be able to evaluate people 5 years old and older who are showing signs or symptoms of influenza; conduct point-of-care influenza testing; and initiate treatment when clinically appropriate.
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Flu season prep: Experts advise early vaccination to protect yourself and loved ones
Experts say early vaccination can protect you and your family, reduce healthcare strain, and safeguard against severe illness.
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CDC reports 216 child deaths this flu season, the most in 15 years
NEW YORK (AP) -- More U.S. children have died this flu season than at any time since the swine flu pandemic 15 years ago, according to a federal report released Friday.
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NC flu deaths surpass 500 for 2024-25 season
There have been 503 flu-associated deaths in North Carolina this flu season, according to the latest data from the state. That's the highest number of deaths since the state started reporting data in 2009.
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24-25 is deadliest flu season in NC
Less masking, lower vaccinations contribute to climb in flu deaths.
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North Carolina faces record flu deaths
Almost 500 people have died of flu this year in North Carolina, the highest death toll since tracking began in 2008.
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NC pharmacists could treat flu under new bill
A new bill making its way through the North Carolina Senate is looking to expand the role of pharmacists when it comes to influenza and strep throat.
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House cat survives bird flu infection
Bird flu is more than just a threat to livestock -- it's also a threat to pets. Eleven cats in Colorado tested positive for the virus recently, and all died -- except for one.
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