Seasonal Respiratory Viruses Surge in NC, Hospital Admissions Spike

Have mild symptoms? Seek treatment in outpatient settings.

Seasonal respiratory illnesses are surging in North Carolina. Hospital admissions are also spiking.

Treatments are available for both flu and COVID-19. They can help prevent severe illness and lower your risk of hospitalization.

If you have mild symptoms, don't wait. Get tested and treated now to prevent severe illness.

Seek care from your regular healthcare provider, urgent care or a telehealth provider. Seeking treatment in outpatient settings like these helps ease strain on hospitals statewide.

What To Do If You Feel Sick

Protect Yourself and Others, Get Vaccinated

Vaccines are our most powerful tool against respiratory viruses. They help prevent serious illness and death. You can get your COVID-19 and flu vaccines together.

You can get COVID-19 and flu vaccines from:

• Pharmacies
• Private medical offices
• Some federally qualified health care centers
• Local health departments

Find flu or COVID-19 vaccines near you

Most health insurance plans will cover the COVID-19 vaccine at no cost. For anyone without insurance, or whose insurance doesn't cover the cost:

• Adults may be able to get no-cost vaccines through the Bridge Access Program. Use vaccines.gov to search for a provider near you.
• Children 18 or younger can get no-cost vaccines through Vaccines for Children.

Ask your provider about RSV vaccines for pregnant women, older adults and infants.

5 Ways to Stop the Spread

1. Keep your hands clean with hand sanitizer or soap and water.
2. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
3. Clean and disinfect surfaces.
4. Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue then discard the tissue.
5. Stay home when sick, except to seek medical care or testing. Protect others in your home:
   • Stay in a separate room and use a separate bathroom, if possible.
   • Avoid contact with other household members and pets.
   • Avoid sharing personal household items, like cups, towels and utensils.
   • Wear a mask when around other people.

Related Press Release: Seasonal Respiratory Illnesses Surge; As Hospital Admissions Spike, NCDHHS Urges Testing and Treatment for Those with Mild Symptoms in Outpatient Settings