COLUMBIA, SC (WCBD) – The Department of Health and Environmental Control says three people in South Carolina died from the flu last week, raising the death toll for this season to 14.

Last year, 289 people in South Carolina died from complications of the flu, 60 of which were from the Lowcountry.

On Thursday, health officials in North Carolina reported six flu deaths which occurred last week. They have had a total of 16 deaths this season.

Flu season officially began October 1^st and typically runs through March 31^st.

You are encouraged to get the flu shot if you haven’t already.

Doctors recommend limiting time with others when sick to avoid getting them infected. They say you should cover your mouth when coughing and sneezing, and always wash your hands with soap and water as often as possible.