First Flu Death of Season Reported in S.C.

A person from the Midlands has become the first to die from flu this season, state health officials said today.

"We are in the beginning stages of our state's flu season. It is important to get vaccinated now," said Dr. Linda Bell, epidemiologist with the state Department of Health and Environmental Control.

"Flu activity typically peaks in February in South Carolina, so we have to prepare for several months of the disease circulating in our communities," she said. "Therefore, we strongly encourage vaccination for all individuals six months and older to prevent the flu and its potentially serious consequences."