The Fayetteville VA Medical Center and Mission Hospital in Asheville have taken steps to combat an influenza outbreak. Both are restricting visitors because of an increasing number of flu cases. Cape Fear Valley Health System of Fayetteville, FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital in Pinehurst and Southeastern Regional Medical Center in Lumberton all report an increase in flu patients. They’re urging people with flu symptoms not to visit patients who are hospitalized.

The latest NC Influenza Surveillance Summary issued by DHHS (2-10-11) shows influenza remains widespread across the state.  One pediatric and one adult flu-associated death were reported for the week ending February 5, 2011. A high rate of increase in the percentage of outpatient and emergency department visits due to influenza were also reported during the period. The State Lab identified 88 positive influenza samples, including influenza B, influenza A/H1N1, influenza A/H3, and influenza A (subtype unknown). Public Health Epidemiologists reported 535 positive influenza results: 282 influenza B and 253 influenza A.