RALIEGH, N.C. (FOX Carolina) - The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services announced the first reported flu-related death of the 2025-2026 flu season.

Officials said an adult from the western part of the state passed away due to complications during the first week of October.

“This is a sad reminder that flu infections can be serious and, in some cases, even fatal,” said State Epidemiologist Zack Moore, M.D, MPH. “We encourage everyone to take preventative measures against flu and other respiratory illnesses like getting your yearly flu shot, regularly washing hands, covering your cough and staying home when sick to avoid infecting others.”

During last year’s respiratory virus season, officials said North Carolina reported the highest number of flu-associated deaths repor

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