WS Chronicle

By Dr. Lawrence “Lars” Nycum 

North Carolina has had one of the harshest flu seasons in years, with overcrowded emergency rooms, urgent care centers and doctors’ offices, as well as more than 300 flu-associated deaths in the state since the fall.  

According to the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, flu-related hospitalizations and emergency room visits surged this season, with more than 1,100 people with flu admitted to the hospital, straining healthcare facilities across the region.  

The statewide flu outbreak even affected the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools. With a high number of cases, the district posted a message on its website recently concerning the outbreak, offering advice to parents on what to do if their child is sick.  

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the number of people seeking medical care in emergency departments in North Carolina for flu and RSV is finally coming off peak. However, with flu season in North Carolina usually lasting until May – and with spring break approaching for many families – it’s important to remain vigilant and seek the right care when needed. 

Understanding the Surge 

The flu spreads quickly in high-traffic areas such as schools, workplaces, public transit, and community gatherings. This year’s strain has been particularly aggressive, leading to severe symptoms such as fever, chills, body aches, fatigue, sore throat and persistent coughing. While most recover within a week or two, complications like pneumonia can occur, particularly in vulnerable populations such as young children, older people (even Pope Francis has been hospitalized) and those with preexisting conditions. 

The best way to avoid severe flu symptoms is through vaccination. While flu shots are typically encouraged in the fall, it is not too late to get vaccinated. Every year, thousands of people in the U.S. die from flu-related complications, and over 100,000 are hospitalized. A flu shot can reduce the severity of illness and help slow the virus’s spread. Additional preventive measures like washing hands frequently, resting at home when sick, and wearing a mask in crowded places can also help reduce your chance of getting severely ill from the flu. 

Choosing the Right Care Options 

When experiencing flu symptoms, it’s critical to assess whether emergency care is necessary. If you are having trouble breathing, experiencing chest pain, a persistent high fever (above 102°F), severe dehydration (dizziness, confusion, or inability to urinate), or worsening symptoms after initial improvement, seek immediate medical attention at an emergency room. However, for non-emergent flu cases, alternatives such as urgent care centers and virtual healthcare options provide timely treatment while alleviating pressure on overburdened hospitals. 

Newer telehealth innovations, such as asynchronous virtual care, provide convenient options for treatment. Patients using these platforms, such as MDLIVE, complete a dynamic online questionnaire, which is reviewed by a board-certified doctor who then provides a diagnosis and treatment plan – often including prescriptions – without requiring a live consultation. This can significantly reduce unnecessary ER visits and ensure that emergency services are available for those who need them most. 

Additionally, an increasing number of urgent care facilities in the Winston-Salem area now offer extended hours seven days a week, easy online check-in and convenient walk-in availability, allowing individuals to receive prompt care without the long waits and costs associated with hospital emergency rooms. 

Looking Ahead 

By getting vaccinated, practicing proper hygiene, and choosing the right healthcare solutions for treatment, individuals can help protect themselves and others while easing the burden on the healthcare system. 

Dr. Lawrence “Lars” Nycum is the market medical executive for Cigna Healthcare, Carolinas.