SOUTHEASTERN, N.C. — Flu season has arrived in North Carolina, with the onset of individuals being seen for influenza-like symptoms rising about one week earlier than 2018 and two weeks earlier than last year.
Area hospitals are implementing visiting restrictions to limit the spread of the virus.
Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center is asking all children aged 12 and under to stay out of hospital facilities until further notice, if possible. Of course, children in need of medical care should not be dissuaded from receiving it at the hospital; the restriction applies only to potential visitors of patients.
The hospital also encourages children 13 and over with any cold-like symptoms against visiting patients at the hospital.
For anyone with compromised immune systems, particularly children and the elderly, the flu virus can be dangerous and potentially life-threatening.
Under special circumstances, nurses on staff can arrange visits with children and patients that are family members in critical condition.
New Hanover Medical Center is also asking children 12 and under to avoid visiting its hosptial facilities in the region. Visiting children and patients with flu-like symptoms will be asked to wear masks to limit the spread of the virus.
According to the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, 10 people have died from the virus since the flu season began in September 2019 in the state. Last season, 203 people died from the virus in North Carolina.
Flu season peaked mid-February last season and in early February during the 2017-2018 season, according to NCDHHS data.
