Should I get the flu vaccine with the season underway? What’s the infection rate in Texas?
Flu season is upon us again, and health officials are preparing for an increase in cases nationwide.
The 2023-2024 influenza season began on Oct. 1, according to DSHS, with slight increases this week compared to the last.
Dr. Tiffany Skaggs, a Texas A&M doctor, says 2023 has been a “light” year for influenza so far, though infection rates are still slightly higher than they were this time last year. There is not a major change expected in symptoms and hospitalization based on strain differences this year compared to last year, she added.
Compared to the previous week, the percentage testing positive for the flu has increased in Texas this week by 0.72%, going from 1.36% to 2.08%. The percentage of patient visits due to influenza-like illness has decreased by 0.02%, going from 3.20% to 3.18%. The intensity of influenza-like illness continues to be minimal.
No influenza-associated pediatric deaths were reported. No respiratory disease outbreaks were reported in school or long-term care facilities this week; there were two outbreaks the previous week.
There are currently five regions in Texas reporting increased flu/influenza-like illness activity, three less than last week. Meanwhile, three regions reported decreased activity, compared with zero the week before.
The flu spreads easily — there are lots of ways to catch it — and it’s especially hard on older adults and small children.
While case numbers in Texas remain relatively low, the best time to get vaccinated is right now before rates start to increase, health experts say. The Texas Department of State Health Services encourages Texans to protect themselves and their families from serious flu illness by getting the flu shot as soon as possible. Everyone six months old and older is urged to get vaccinated every flu season.
Texans can also stop the spread by washing their hands frequently, covering their coughs and sneezes, staying home if they’re sick and considering wearing a mask in public if ill or in close proximity to someone who’s ill.
