RALEIGH, N.C. — The state health department reported two adults and two children died of the flu last week, bringing the total number of deaths this season to 281.
More than the last three flu seasons combined, making it the deadliest since the 2017 to 2018 season with 391 deaths.
Warm weather doesn't always mean a cool-down in winter sickness.
The severity of flu season, however, continues to alarm doctors.
The weekly respiratory virus report was released on Thursday morning, and we're seeing firsthand the continuation of this ruthless virus season as people continue to die from the flu. Overall, emergency room visits for respiratory viruses were fewer than the week prior.
With 9.6% compared to 11.2%. A far cry from the 23% the week after Christmas.
Hospital admissions were down, too, with 1427 patients admitted for respiratory symptoms. Compared to 1647 the week prior.