RALEIGH, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) -- A Charlotte-area man was the first person in North Carolina to die after contracting the flu this season, the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services reported Wednesday.  He died in the second week of October due to complications of influenza, health officials said. State data shows he was at least 65 years old, but does not provide a specific municipality. Walgreens to close 1,200 stores as US pharmacies struggle to define a new role "This is a sad reminder that influenza can be a very serious illness," said State Epidemiologist Zack Moore, M.D., MPH. "Taking preventative measures against flu and other respiratory illnesses like getting vaccinated, regularly washing hands, covering your cough and staying home when sick are important to help protect you and your family."  State data shows there were 319 influenza-associated deaths during the 2023-2024 season, up from 196 the year before. DHHS says that influenza, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are expected to increase over the coming weeks. Vaccinations are the best way to prevent serious illness, hospitalization, and death from these infections, officials say.  Flu symptoms can include:  Fever or feeling feverish/chills  Cough  Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing  Fatigue (tiredness)  Sore throat  Runny or stuffy nose  Muscle pain or body aches  Headache  Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea. This is more common in children than adults. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends all people aged 6 months and older receive a seasonal flu vaccine and COVID-19 vaccine. RSV vaccinations are also recommended to protect older adults 75 years and older, adults 60-74 years who are at increased risk of severe RSV, and pregnant women during weeks 32 through 36 of pregnancy to protect infants. Parents should talk with their healthcare provider about other options to protect infants from severe RSV disease. Flu, COVID-19, and RSV vaccinations are available at pharmacies, private medical offices, some federally qualified healthcare centers, and local health departments. These vaccines can be administered at the same visit. To find a vaccine near you, visit www.vaccines.gov/find-vaccines.