One person in the Lowcountry has died from flu-related causes, according to the South Carolina Department of Health (DPH). DPH confirmed the state's first influenza-associated death of the 2025 season Wednesday.
State health officials underscore the seriousness of the disease and the importance of being vaccinated. DPH recommends that everyone 6 months of age and older get vaccinated, especially amid the holiday season.
“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,” said State Epidemiologist Dr. Linda Bell. “Getting vaccinated against this disease is the best way to prevent severe illness and death."
Bell advises that getting the flu shot is the best protection against severe illness, particularly for those who are at increased complications from the virus, including young children, pregnant women, people 65 and older, and those with chronic health conditions.
Flu vaccines offered at DPH health department clinics are available by appointment. Call 1-855-472-3432 to make an appointment or go to the DPH website to find the nearest location.
In addition to the vaccine other preventive methods that protect against the flu and other frequent handwashing and staying home or away from others while sick, as it takes about two weeks for the body’s immune system to respond for full protection.