Rapidly rising flu cases have put South Carolina on high alert, with the state now sharing the top spot with Louisiana for the highest flu activity in the U.S. for the week ending December 16, according to recent CDC data.
Over 4,500 new flu cases were reported in South Carolina during that week, marking the highest weekly count in the state this year. The flu season has been particularly severe, with 12 deaths linked to the flu, half of which occurred in the Upstate region.
The Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) provided further insights in their latest report:
- A total of 370 flu-related hospitalizations were recorded this week from 54 hospitals.
- Since the beginning of the current flu season, there have been 1,115 hospitalizations due to influenza.
- This week saw one flu-related death, bringing the season’s total to 12.
- The following counties in the Upstate region have reported flu cases exceeding the state’s baseline:
- Oconee
- Pickens
- Greenville
- Anderson
- Laurens
- Spartanburg
- Newberry
Residents are urged to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and others from the flu.
In addition to the flu shot, many Carolinians are turning to alternative types of remedies to avoid the potentially deadly virus.
One of the most common alternative remedies that an increasing number of people are swearing by is essential oils, and especially essential oil blends that are specifically crafted to kill viruses and boost immune systems.
Others are turning to a more ancient fruit-derived remedy to fight the flu – Elderberry Syrup. One local resident has even started a new company, Sweet’s Syrup, bottling and selling her own brand of the stuff in shops all around the Queen City.
While most alternative remedies have been slow to find favor with the NCDHHS, NC Health officials do recommend taking extra vitamins, exercising, and eating healthier to strengthen your immune system as this year’s flu season ramps up.
