It’s the time of year again in Sampson County, and throughout the state, when respiratory viruses like the flu, RSV and COVID-19 are running rampant, prompting local health officials to encourage individuals to protect their health, and impose visitor restrictions at the hospital.
“Like many hospitals across the region, we have seen a notable increase in flu, RSV, and COVID-19 cases in recent weeks,” noted d Morgan Shaw, director of business development at Sampson Regional Medical Center. “To help protect our patients, visitors, and staff, temporary visitation restrictions will go into effect beginning Monday, Jan. 5.”
The restrictions include limiting visitors to those over the age of 18, and asking anyone with symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, or muscle and body aches to refrain from visiting patient rooms unless they have been symptom-free for at least 24 hours. “We will continue to monitor illness trends and adjust precautions as needed,” Shaw added.
Other health officials encourage vaccination and other prevention measures. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services reported the first pediatric flu-related death for the 2025-2026 flu season on Dec. 17. A child in the western region of the state died due to complications of influenza.
“This is a tragic reminder that flu infections can be serious or even deadly,” said state Epidemiologist Zack Moore, M.D, MPH. “If you or your loved ones have not received the flu vaccine this season, I hope you will consider doing so to help protect yourself and your community.”
Kelly Parrish, Sampson County Health Department dfirector of nursing, contends that vaccination is the best way to prevent illness. “Flu vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent influenza,” she stated.
“Each year, the flu vaccine is updated to protect against the most common circulating strains. Vaccination significantly reduces the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death, especially among older adults, young children, pregnant individuals, and those with chronic medical conditions. Even when someone who is vaccinated gets the flu, their illness is typically milder and shorter.”
In addition to getting that annual flu shot, Parrish said staying up to date on all recommended vaccines, including COVID-19 and RSV, can add an extra layer of protection. “Vaccines not only protect individuals but also help reduce the spread of illness in the community, protecting those who are most vulnerable,” she stated.
Parrish also advised taking the precautions (see box) that can help reduce the impact and spread of respiratory illnesses
“Early testing and treatment with an antiviral drug can also help prevent flu infections from becoming more serious in children,” reads a press release from NCDHHS. “Antiviral treatment works best if started soon after symptoms begin.”
This fall, NCDHHS State Health Director and Chief Medical Officer Dr. Larry Greenblatt issued standing orders to allow pharmacists at retail locations to test for the flu virus on-site, and then immediately treat with the appropriate medications to reduce the severity of illness when appropriate.
“Respiratory illnesses can be serious, but prevention works,” Parrish said. “Vaccination, combined with healthy habits, helps keep our families, workplaces, schools, and community safer. Our local health department encourages residents to talk with their healthcare provider or visit us to learn more about recommended vaccines and prevention strategies.”