COLUMBIA, S.C. — State health officials said 16 more people have died in South Carolina after being stricken by the flu.
The Department of Health and Environmental Control said Wednesday that the latest deaths bring the state's total number of flu deaths to 167 since the flu season began in October.
[FLU RESOURCE GUIDE: What you need to know]
There are some signs of improvement. Health officials say more than 6,300 flu cases were reported across the state. That's less than half of the number of cases reported just a week earlier. DHEC also says hospitalizations were down more than 180 from the week before.
The flu season usually runs through May.
DHEC said the flu shot is the best protection against the flu. The agency is waiving administrative for the flu shot at its public health clinics.
Updated flu numbers for North Carolina are expected to be released Thursday.
Read more top trending stories on wsoctv.com:
- Rabbit hunters find remains of woman missing for 10 years
- Man shot outside uptown club following unofficial CIAA party, police say
- Juvenile arrested for allegedly making threat against York Co. school
- WATCH: Vicki Graf's Thursday forecast outlook
- Juvenile arrested after social media threats made against Southwest MS
- Rev. Graham's body returns to Charlotte after Washington honor
Associated Press
