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COLUMBIA, S.C. (WSAV) – Health officials in South Carolina announced their first flu-related death this season.
The Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) announced this news Thursday, November 8.
No additional details regarding the place where the identity of the deceased was made available immediately.
"This is our first laboratory-confirmed, laboratory-confirmed, influenza-associated, seasonal death," said Dr. Lilian Peake, Director of Public Health at DHEC. "Unfortunately, we are seeing every year many deaths, hospitalizations and other serious complications of influenza in South Carolina."
According to Peake, young children, pregnant women, people aged 65 and over and people with chronic health conditions, such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease or lung disease, are among the most at high risk of serious influenza complications.
But even healthy people can have serious flu-related complications, she said.
Health officials suggest that all people six months of age and older get a flu shot every year. Influenza vaccines are generally available in physicians' offices, clinics, pharmacies and health services.
In addition, DHEC encourages the following measures to prevent influenza and ensure the safety of others:
-While you are sick, limit contact with others as much as possible so as not to infect them.
– Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after using it. If a tissue is not available, use the hollow of your elbow.
-Wash your hands often with soap and water. If you do not have water and soap, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Influenza vaccines available at DHEC Department of Health clinics are available by appointment. Call 1-855-472-3432 to make an appointment or visit www.scdhec.gov/flu/fluclinics to find the location closest to you.
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