Flu cases continue to spike in SC. Here’s what the numbers show for Jasper and Beaufort counties
South Carolina is officially in its fifth week of widespread flu cases, based on the latest report from the South Carolina Department of Public Health.
There have been big jumps in cases since the last report, with almost 3,000 reported cases statewide.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, South Carolina still has one of the highest influenza activity levels in the nation.
Beaufort and Jasper counties continue to see higher-than-normal levels of flu cases with a 2.6% increase in flu activity this week alone, according to the FluSTAR Surveillance System 12-point flu activity tracking system.
Beaufort County has seen a 2.5% increase in cases and flu activity.
Jasper County has seen a 2.6% increase in cases and flu activity.
The most common symptom and condition in this strain of flu in the Lowcountry is a severe cough.
Flu season usually begins in October with the peak activity beginning in December and lasts through February.
In terms of hospitalization from flu cases, the highest number of hospitalizations has been in those 65 years old. Since the latest report, there have been 691 total flu hospitalizations.
Flu cases throughout the state and locally continue to moderately rise in the midst of this flu season.
Here are some ways to keep yourself safe from illness:
Get your updated vaccine for COVID-19 and a flu vaccine
Wash your hands
Social distance
Wear masks
If you are sick, stay home
If you’re healthy, avoid those who are sick
Other general tips to stay healthy:
Getting eight hours of sleep
Staying hydrated
Avoiding alcohol, smoking and vaping
How to get a flu vaccine in Beaufort County
- Beaufort County Health Department: 601 Wilmington Street
- You can visit between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. on the first and fourth Thursdays of the month or call to set up an appointment: 855-472-3432
- Bluffton Health Clinic: 4819 Bluffton Parkway
- You can visit between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. on Thursdays or call to set up an appointment: 855-472-3432
How to get a flu vaccine in Jasper County
- Jasper County Health Department: 651 Grays Highway
- You can visit between 8:30 a.m. and 4:45 p.m. every day except Friday. You can call to set up an appointment: 843-726-7788
Other places to get flu vaccinations
- Walgreens
- CVS
- Walmart Pharmacy
- Publix Pharmacy
- Kroger Pharmacy
- Carolina Infusion and Compounding Pharmacy
- Preferred Pharmacy
- Beaufort Drug Company
