State health officials say at least 22 people have died from influenza in South Carolina since the fall.
/ MGN Online
COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) -- State health officials say at least 22 people have died from influenza in South Carolina since the fall.
That compares with a single death in the last flu season.
The Department of Health and Environmental Control says three people have died in Greenville and Lexington counties. There have been two deaths in Aiken, Oconee, Richland and York counties.
Nineteen of the deaths have involved people at least age 65. Two of the victims were between 50 and 64 and one was a 4-year-old.
Doctors say a flu shot is the best defense from the illness. The anti-viral drug Tamiflu can lessen the effects of flu if given when symptoms begin.
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