PORTSMOUTH, Va. (WAVY) — As flu rates continue to rise across the country, Virginia and North Carolina find themselves in the “very high” category for flu rates.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)’s Weekly Influenza Surveillance Report, Virginia continues to be trending upward. However, it remains in the lower tier of the very high category. North Carolina is reported to have higher flu rates than Virginia, with rates also continuing to rise.
“We are seeing a rise in cases mostly because of decreased vaccination rates,” Virginia Department of Health Deputy Director Dr. Annie Williams said.
The age group where it’s declined the most—those younger school-aged kids.
“As of Jan. 25, only 24.4% of those persons, so less than 25% of people eligible to be vaccinated, have actually gotten their flu vaccine,” Williams said.
The number of people diagnosed with flu in the 5-17 age range has also gone up by 25% in the state of Virginia. There have been two pediatric deaths—one child between five and 12, another between 13 and 17.
“We know that infection prevention techniques like hand washing, covering when you cough, staying home when you’re sick also have a positive effect,” Williams said. “It’s just this age group, socialization is the name of the game. So hugging, slapping hands and creating avenues for viral transmission increases.”
The Virginia Department of Health found that, for the week of Jan. 25, the flu accounted for 7% of all emergency department visits. Overall respiratory illness continues to rise throughout the Commonwealth, with the central and eastern region feeling the brunt of the increase.
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services found that, for the week of Jan. 25, more than 4,000 influenza-positive tests were reported throughout hospitals in the state. The highest region of flu increase was Region 3 , which includes Cumberland, Wayne, Lee and Moore.
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On the flip side, she says more people ages 44 to 50 and older are getting vaccinated, but not enough.
In North Carolina, the number of emergency department visits for flu-like illness jumped in mid-December and continues to climb. As of last week, the North Carolina Department of Health reported 18% of all emergency room visits had symptoms of a respiratory virus — up from the previous week. So far, there have been no pediatric deaths in North Carolina, but 66 adult deaths since October 2024.
And for those wondering about getting vaccinated?
“It is not too late — in fact, hurry,” Williams said. “Anyone who hasn’t gotten vaccinated, please contact your primary care physician or please, all the area health departments have immunization clinics where available.”
They will be offering a mobile clinic vaccination clinic this week in the Berkeley area.
According to the CDC, with February historically as the highest peak for flu activity, the rates are expected to continue to rise.
The CDC encourages people throughout the country to do their part in preventing the spread of the flu. Some tips for prevention can be found below:
- Avoid close contact with those who are sick
- Stay home when you are sick when possible
- Cover your mouth and nose
- Wash your hands regularly
- Avoid touching eyes, nose or mouth
- Practice good hygiene habits
- Get vaccinated each year for the season flu
For more information on how to reduce the spread of the flu, click here.
