According to the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control there have been 22 confirmed deaths to date from influenza in the state. Most of those were adults between the ages of 50 and 65 years of age. One four year old child was included in the data.
News station WBTW reported on January 11, 2013 from the Associated Press that three people have died in Greenville and Lexington counties in South Carolina with two deaths reported in Aiken, Oconee, Richland and York counties. During the 2011-2012 flu season there were only 5 confirmed deaths reported by South Carolina DHEC laboratories.
While it takes two weeks for the flu vaccine to be fully activated, it is not too late to get the flu shot. Influenza outbreaks can be seen well into February and March. The United States is experiencing an early influenza season and it is proving to be a harsh flu season.
Some tips for lessening your chance of getting the flu can be found on the South Carolina DHEC website and include these tips:
Wash your hands often with soap and water.
Cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze with a disposable tissue.
Avoid crowds and people that you know are sick. And stay home if you are not well.
Eat a healthy diet, exercise and one of the most important suggestions? Get plenty of rest.
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