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
Flu, COVID-19 and RSV are expected to increase in the coming months. Vaccines are the best way to prevent serious illness, hospitalization and death.
Who Needs Protection Most
Vaccination is especially important for:
- Adults 65 and older
- Children younger than 5
- Pregnant women
- People with weakened immune systems
- Anyone with asthma, diabetes, heart disease or obesity
Everyone 6 months and older can get vaccinated against flu and COVID-19.
RSV vaccines are also available for:
- Adults 75 and older
- Adults 50-74 at higher risk for severe RSV
- Pregnant women between weeks 32 and 36, to protect newborns
Uninsured children can get vaccines for free through the Vaccines for Children Program.
Flu, COVID-19 and RSV vaccines are available at pharmacies, local health departments, doctors’ offices and federally qualified health centers. They can be given during the same visit.
Governor Stein and Secretary Sangvai Get Flu Shots, Encourage Others to Do the Same
Governor Josh Stein and NCDHHS Secretary Dev Sangvai got their flu shots this month at a Raleigh pharmacy. They’re encouraging everyone in North Carolina to do the same.
“Getting vaccinated now is the best way to protect yourself, your loved ones and your community from the flu. Vaccines are readily available, and I urge North Carolinians to get their seasonal vaccines as we enter cold and flu season.”
— Governor Stein“The best way to prevent getting seriously ill from the flu, COVID and other respiratory illnesses is to get vaccinated, especially if you are high risk. Treating flu early can also help decrease your risk. That’s why NCDHHS is increasing access to prevention, diagnosis and treatment...”
— Secretary Sangvai
Last year, flu caused 544 deaths in NC – the highest number since the 2009 H1N1 pandemic. Nationally, pediatric flu deaths were also at their highest since 2009. Most children who died were not fully vaccinated.
Getting a flu shot greatly reduces your risk of severe illness. People who skipped their flu vaccine last year were twice as likely to need medical help for flu.
National health groups – including the American Medical Assocation, the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – recommend flu, COVID-19 and RSV vaccines as the best way to prevent serious illness from these viruses.
New Standing Order Lets Pharmacists Test and Treat for Flu
As of Oct. 1, 2025, people in North Carolina can get tested and treated for flu at many local pharmacies.
New standing orders, issued by State Health Director Dr. Larry Greenblatt and authorized under House Bill 67, make it easier to get care quickly.
At these Test and Treat locations, pharmacists can test for flu and, if needed, provide treatment right away. There’s no separate doctor visit needed.
“This action reduces barriers for people who are feeling sick or have been exposed to someone with the influenza virus. Being able to get tested and immediately treated at a pharmacy increases access for people who do not have a regular provider and will help make communities healthier during the respiratory virus season.”
— Secretary Sangvai
What Pharmacists Can Do
Under the standing orders, trained pharmacists can:
- Evaluate people ages 5 and older who have flu symptoms
- Give a rapid flu test in the pharmacy
- Provide antiviral medicine if the test and symptoms suggest flu
- Offer preventive medicine for high-risk people recently exposed to flu
Pharmacists also give advice on self-care, how to limit the spread of flu and when to see a doctor. They share information with your primary care provider to help keep your care coordinated. If you don’t have a doctor, pharmacists can help connect you with one.
Important to Know
- Flu tests are not perfect. If you keep feeling sick or get worse, you should see a doctor even if your test was negative.
- Fees may apply. Check with your pharmacy about costs. Some insurance plans cover flu testing and treatment now, and more coverage is expected over time.
- Appointments may be required. Call ahead to make sure your pharmacy offers flu testing and treatment.
- You can still visit your doctor or local clinic for flu testing and care.
Take Steps to Stay Healthy
Along with getting vaccinated and treated early, these simple steps help protect you and others:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water or use hand sanitizer.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
- Clean and disinfect surfaces you touch often.
- Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue, then throw it away.
- Stay home when sick, except to get medical care or testing.
- If possible, stay in a separate room and use a different bathroom from others.
- Avoid sharing cups, towels and utensils.
- Wear a mask when around other people if you are sick.
Stay Informed
NCDHHS tracks flu, COVID-19 and RSV activity across the state through emergency department visits, lab testing and wastewater monitoring. The Respiratory Virus Summary Dashboard, updated weekly, shows current trends.
Learn more about vaccines, testing and treatment in your community at:
Protect yourself and your loved ones this season – get vaccinated, stay alert for symptoms and don’t wait to seek care.
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