State confirms first influenza-related death of the 2026-27 respiratory virus season; flu, COVID-19 and RSV vaccines widely available across North Carolina.
RALEIGH, NC –– North Carolina health officials have announced the state’s first flu-related death of the 2026-27 season, underscoring the importance of vaccination as respiratory virus activity begins to increase across the state.
According to the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS), an adult living in the central part of the state died from flu-related complications during the first week of October. Officials have not released additional details to protect the family’s privacy.
“This is a heartbreaking reminder of how serious the flu can be,” said NCDHHS Secretary Dev Sangvai. State health leaders are encouraging residents to take preventive measures, including annual vaccinations, staying home when sick, frequent handwashing, and covering coughs and sneezes.
The announcement follows one of the deadliest flu seasons North Carolina has experienced in recent years. During the 2025-26 respiratory virus season, the state recorded 335 flu-related deaths, including 10 pediatric deaths, making it the third-highest influenza death toll since statewide reporting began in 2009.
Vaccination is especially important for:
•Adults age 65 and older • Children younger than 5 • Pregnant women • People with weakened immune systems
•Individuals with chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease, or obesity
Where to Get a Flu Shot
Flu vaccines are currently available throughout North Carolina at:
•Local pharmacies, including CVS, Walgreens, Walmart, and Publix, pharmacies
•Primary care physicians’ offices
•Urgent care centers
•County health departments
Free and Low-Cost Flu Shot Options
Residents without insurance may still have access to free or reduced-cost vaccinations through:
•County health department immunization clinics
•Community health centers
•Seasonal vaccination events offered by local hospitals, pharmacies, churches, and community organizations throughout the fall
Local Options for Brunswick and Columbus Counties
•Brunswick County Health Services
•Columbus County Health Department
•McLeod Health and Novant Health community outreach programs
•Local pharmacies for scheduled vaccine clinics
Many pharmacies accept walk-ins, while county health departments often provide flu clinics during weekdays. Availability may vary by location.
Additional Prevention Tips
Health officials recommend several steps to reduce the spread of flu and other respiratory illnesses:
•Stay home when sick • Wash hands • Cover coughs and sneezes
•Clean frequently touched surfaces • Improve indoor ventilation when possible
•Contact a healthcare provider early if flu symptoms develop, especially for people at high risk of severe illness
As North Carolina enters the height of respiratory virus season, health officials emphasize that vaccination remains the most effective tool for reducing severe illness, hospitalization, and death from influenza.
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