Flu cases are on the rise in South Carolina, with recent data from the South Carolina Department of Public Health indicating 312 flu-related hospitalizations and two flu-related deaths during the week of December 22 to 28.
The Conway Medical Center’s Infection Preventionist, Susan Larrimore, reports that Horry County’s flu positivity rate is higher than the state average. Nationally, the flu positivity rate is 18.7%, while Horry County’s rate exceeds the state’s baseline of 3.2%. Larrimore projects that the flu positivity rate will continue to rise rapidly, with the current rate reaching 12.9%.
Dr. Linda Bell, with the South Carolina Department of Public Health, emphasizes that flu activity is unpredictable and can vary in severity from year to year.
The holidays typically see a surge in cases due to travel and social gatherings. High vaccination rates can help moderate flu activity, but many individuals remain unprotected, which could contribute to the rising cases.
Both experts agree that while the flu vaccine is not 100% effective, it can reduce the severity of symptoms and lower the risk of hospitalization.