Topics Related to Epidemiology
Protecting Our Communities, One Sample at a TimeDid you know we can track viruses in our communities through wastewater?When you flush the toilet or wash something down the drain, you might not think about it again. But that wastewater can actually help protect your community’s health. NCDHHS tests samples from select wastewater treatment plants across NC to see how COVID-19, flu and RSV are circulating.
North Carolina has reported its first flu-related death of the 2025-26 season. An adult in the western part of the state died from flu complications in early October.“This is a sad reminder that flu infections can be serious and, in some cases, even fatal. We encourage everyone to take preventative measures against flu and other respiratory illnesses like getting your yearly flu shot, regularly washing your hands, covering your cough and staying home when sick to avoid infecting others.”— State Epidemiologist Dr. Zack Moore
Pharmacies in NC can now give COVID-19 vaccines without a prescription after a short discussion on the benefits and risks. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently updated its recommendations to allow this change.Due to this update, NCDHHS ended standing orders that allowed pharmacies to give COVID-19 vaccines without prescriptions. These orders are now not needed with the updated CDC recommendations.
As children across NC get ready to head back to school, it's a good time to make sure they are up to date on vaccines. Children and teens are more susceptible to certain diseases. Vaccines help protect your child and keep them healthy so they can learn and grow.Why vaccines matter"Health care providers and families have the same goal: A healthy future for all our children. Vaccines are an essential piece of child, teen and family well-being."-NC Health and Human Services Secretary Dev Sangvai
North Carolina has confirmed its first case of West Nile virus in 2025. The case was in a person who lives in Durham County. Around the same time, mosquitoes carrying the virus were found in Pitt County. This is a good reminder to take steps to protect yourself and your family from mosquito bites.
NCDHHS Urges Caution Outdoors Amid Record High Heat-Related Illnesses
North Carolina is working to prevent measles during a national increase in cases. Here's how to protect yourself and others.
Every year on June 27, we recognize National HIV Testing Day (NHTD). It's a day to take care of your health, learn your HIV status and help spread the word about the importance of getting tested.Whether you’ve been tested before or this would be your first time — now is a great time to take that next step to protect your health.Get InvolvedHere’s how you can take action this National HIV Testing Day:
Preparing family for summer camps and back-to-school requirements? It's now easier to find free childhood vaccines for eligible children.A new interactive map through the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program makes it easy to find nearby providers. You can search by city or ZIP code and connect with local VFC providers who offer free vaccines.
We bet you know someone who works in public health. We're your neighbors and friends, working in every county to protect the health of all North Carolinians.