AREA FLU CASES PEAKED IN MID-DECEMBER, BUT LOCAL DOCTORS EXPECTING UPTICK
Health officials are saying this year’s flu season could be one of the worst seen in recent memory.
The latest estimates from the Centers for Disease Control, dated from October 1st to December 28th, 2019, show approximately 6.4 million people have been affected by the flu or flu-like illnesses.
This has resulted in about 3 million medical visits, of which 55,000 people have been hospitalized. It is also estimated that there have been 2,900 flu-associated deaths this season, 27 of those children, and eight of those in Texas.
Dr. Eric Alford, a family physician at Baylor Scott and White – Brenham Clinic, said the severity of the current flu season is comparable to what was seen in 2017.
Dr. Alford said, so far this year, Texas is continuing a several-year trend as the leader of flu cases across the country. He said some speculation attributes it to a lack of immunization among certain groups in the state.
Dr. Alford said flu season typically begins around October and November, and ends around March or April.
Back in November, Caldwell ISD had to cancel classes at each of its campuses, after the flu caused extensive absences throughout its student body.
Dr. Alford said most of what is being seen right now is the Influenza B-strain, which is normally seen later in the season heading into the summer. He said Influenza A is still at moderate levels compared to Influenza B, so he expects a “significant rise” in Influenza A over the next few weeks and months.
Dr. Alford said there has been an “outstanding response” from the local community in regards to getting their flu shots done. He reassured that the flu vaccine does not make you sick, as it does not have a live virus. He did say the vaccine can take up to two weeks to take effect.
Anyone who suspects they may have the flu should visit their primary care physician, who will be able to confirm if it is the flu and prescribe the appropriate medication.