Flu-related death in NC highlights 84% surge in cases

North Carolina reports another flu-related death, bringing the total to four for this flu season. Positive flu cases have increased by 84% week over week, with three deaths occurring in individuals over the age of 65 and one death in the 25-to-49 age range. RSV positive cases have surpassed COVID-19 cases for the first time in at least a year, with RSV cases up 21% and COVID-19 cases up 15% week over week. Emergency room visits for respiratory illnesses have increased by 14%, with COVID-19 visits up 7%, suspected flu visits up 32%, and RSV visits up 15%. Hospital admissions for COVID-19 have increased by 5%, while flu hospital admissions have risen by 26% week over week. COVID-19 particles detected in wastewater have decreased by 8% since the previous week.