The SC Department of Public Health reports a surge in the flu, but severity often is low

Seasonal influenza continues to surge, as in past seasons, but the severity remains low, the SC Department of Public Health (SCDH) said in its weekly report. But the influenza spread is expected to continue.

According to the CDC, three pediatric flu-related deaths have been reported. The influenza A viruses are the most frequently reported this season.

The SCDH reports seven flu-related deaths and 742 flu-associated hospitalizations.

The CDC recommends that everyone 6 months and older get an annual influenza (flu) vaccine. Approximately 130 million doses of influenza vaccine have been distributed this season.

Public health experts strongly urge people to get the flu shot.

In fact, South Carolina Department of Public Health epidemiologists urge people to get vaccinated against the flu virus, which is likely to remain in circulation through March or even April.

Flu cases are on the rise in South Carolina, and several hospital systems — Prisma Health, Bon Secours, and Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System —are implementing visitation restrictions to shield patients, caregivers, and the public from the virus.