First flu death of the season reported in South Carolina, health officials say
The first flu-related death of the season was recently reported in the Palmetto State by the South Carolina Department of Health.
The person who died was a Lowcountry resident, the Department of Public Health said Wednesday in a news release. Further information about the victim, including their age, was not available.
The current flu season in South Carolina started Sept. 28, according to the release.
“Unfortunately, we see many deaths, hospitalizations and other serious complications of flu each year in our state,” said Dr. Linda Bell, State Epidemiologist and director of the department’s Health Programs Branch. “Getting vaccinated against this disease is the best way to prevent severe illness and death, and I recommend that all of us who are able get our shot as soon as possible.”
The Department of Public Health recommends that everyone 6 months of age and older get vaccinated.
Preventing the flu is particularly important for people who are at increased risk of complications from the virus, including young children, pregnant women, people 65 and older, and those with chronic health conditions like asthma, diabetes, or heart or lung disease. However, healthy people also can have serious complications from the flu, according to the release.
Some suggestions to prevent and protect against the flu, and other respiratory viruses, include vaccination, frequent handwashing, and staying home or away from others while sick.
“Regardless of what this season will bring, we can be prepared for significant activity not only from the flu, but respiratory illnesses in general, to include COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV,” Bell said. “Just like with the flu, being vaccinated is the best protection against severe illness from COVID-19 or RSV. People should talk with their health care provider for detailed recommendations.”
Flu vaccines offered at Department of Public Health clinics are available by appointment. To make an appointment, call 855-472-3432, or go to the Department of Public Health website to find the nearest location.
This story was originally published December 3, 2025 at 10:02 AM with the headline "First flu death of the season reported in South Carolina, health officials say."
