North Carolinians urged to get flu shots as new strain spreads nationwide

Medical professionals are encouraging Americans to take extra precautions to avoid a new flu strain spreading across the U.S. 

H3N2, called subclade K, is being tied to a growing number of cases overseas as well as a growing number of U.S. states. Statewide hospital admissions from flu have risen 160% over the past month, from 43 admissions in late October to 112 as of Wednesday.

Dr. David Weber, an infectious disease specialist with UNC Health, is encouraging people to get flu shots and consider wearing a mask in crowded places such as airports. 

“You can still get it on the planes even though they have very good air handling, but if you’re in those travel situations you should certainly consider wearing a mask if you’re in a vulnerable group,” Weber said.

UNC Hospitals identified roughly 30 patients with influenza last week, about twice as many as the week prior, Weber said. 

“All of the respiratory viruses – we see more of in the winter,” Weber said. “That’s because all of them survive better at low temperature, low humidity, plus we spend more time indoors.”

More than 500 North Carolinians died from the flu in the 2024-25 season, making it the deadliest flu season on record. Five deaths reported were pediatric cases. 

The CDC recommends annual flu shots for people 6 months and older. But Weber is concerned about a rise in vaccine skepticism. 

“I am concerned as vaccine coverage has decreased in recent years,” Weber said. “That’s the biggest concern. Vaccines are safe, they’re effective, and they prevent thousands of deaths each year.”

Weber said even amid the new flu strain, vaccines remain the best way for people to protect against serious infections. When someone does get sick, he recommends they see a medical provider as soon as possible. Antiviral treatments work best when given within 48 hours of the onset of symptoms, he said.