The North Carolina Division of Public Health (NCDPH) confirmed this week two cases of seasonal influenza, the first cases of flu confirmed by the state since last spring. The cases were diagnosed in two children from Durham County. 

State Health Director Jeffrey Engel, MD says the cases are a reminder that influenza is a year-round problem, and that it’s not too early to get immunized against flu.

This year’s flu vaccine includes protection against three strains of influenza, including H1N1. For most people, that means only one flu immunization is necessary. Children under 9 years of age who haven’t been vaccinated against the flu in the past will need two doses of flu vaccine.  The CDC and the NCDPH recommend that everyone over six months of age should get a yearly flu vaccine.

Read the NCDPH news release about seasonal flu.