North Carolina residents need to get flu vaccine

North Carolina -- It's that time of year, get out and get your flu vaccination now

The CDC recommends everyone age 6 months and older to get the flu vaccine by the end of October. 

"A flu vaccination is a simple, easy step that can help keep you healthy," said Dr. Elizabeth Tilson, State Health Director and Chief Medical Officer for the Department of Health and Human Services. "In addition, getting vaccinated can not only protect you, but it can protect your family, loved ones, and others who may be at a higher risk of complications."

The state of North Carolina, 391 flu deaths were reported during the 2017-2018 flu season.

Of those 391 deaths, 290 were people age 65 and older and seven were children under the age of 18.

Last winter the number of deaths in the United States, 80,000 people died from the flu and complications from the flu. 

The vaccinations are given at hospitals, pharmacies, private medical offices, some federally qualified health care centers, and local health departments.

It is so important to get that vaccination, officials say the vaccination against the flu can make illness milder and reduce the risk of more serious outcomes.

Late fall to early spring in North Carolina, is the most common time, activity usually peaking in January or February.