South Carolina Flu Rate Ranks Second Nationally
State health data shows more than 1,000 people tested positive for flu in a single week as Lowcountry cases rise.
Updated on Nov. 12, 2026 in COVID-19
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South Carolina reported the second-highest flu rate in the nation, according to state health data. Flu A cases have increased over the past several weeks in the Lowcountry, including at Beaufort Memorial Express Care.
Why it matters
The rise in positive tests signals heavy flu activity across South Carolina, which can strain local clinics and affect residents who are not vaccinated or who have chronic conditions. Residents should monitor symptoms and seek care when illness does not improve with home treatment.
State health data shows more than 1,000 people tested positive for flu in one week, with South Carolina ranking second nationally in flu rate. The report does not compare this week's count to prior seasons, and it does not break down how many cases were Flu A versus other strains.
The players
Beaufort Memorial Express Care
Beaufort Memorial Express Care is an urgent care clinic in the Lowcountry of South Carolina that reported rising Flu A cases over recent weeks.
The details
Flu A cases have increased over the past several weeks at Beaufort Memorial Express Care in the Lowcountry. Flu symptoms can last seven to 10 days, and an antiviral medication can shorten symptoms by about a day, while antibiotics do not treat flu because it is a virus.
Timeline
Over the past several weeks: Flu A cases increased at Beaufort Memorial Express Care.
Within the most recent week: More than 1,000 people tested positive for flu in South Carolina.
Seasonal Patterns
South Carolina's ranking as second-highest in the nation for flu rate, as reported in state health surveillance data, places the state among the hardest-hit for this season's flu activity. The figures reflect the seasonal pattern of flu circulating in the Lowcountry during the current respiratory season.
Flu symptoms can linger for seven to 10 days, and over-the-counter medicines such as Tylenol, Advil, or antihistamines can help people feel better. Symptoms that persist after taking over-the-counter medicine warrant a visit to a doctor.
The takeaway
Antibiotics do not treat the flu because it is a virus, so early care focuses on rest, fluids, and symptom relief. An antiviral medication can shorten symptoms by about a day if started promptly with a provider's guidance.
Further reading
For more on respiratory illness trends, see COVID-19 reporting in South Carolina.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Wtoc.
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