A spike in flu cases across the Valley has Health officials urging residents to get vaccinated.
According to Hidalgo County Health Director Eddie Olivarez, they are getting indications that this year will be “a very strong flu season.”
Olivarez said “we are already seeing a record number of Influenza B cases. In fact, we are seeing the same amount of cases we reported last year.
Last year we didn’t see a spike until late January, but this year we are seeing high numbers in the beginning of November.”
Olivarez said to keep yourself and your family protected from the flu, it’s important to get that flu shot.
He said the vaccine does cover the Influenza B strain of the flu.
Olivarez adds in most cases, the vaccine will prevent the virus or lessen the impact.
Those most at risk for the flu are the elderly, small children and those who suffer from immune compromised illnesses.
Symptoms include fever, running nose, body aches, fatigue, nausea, diarrhea and/or vomiting.
Olivarez said the vaccines are available at county health clinics, as well as your private physician’s office and pharmacists.
Action 4 News also spoke to Regional Medical Director for the Texas Department of State Health Services, Dr. Bryan Smith, who says the outbreak of the flu is only in South Texas, mainly the border regions.
Dr. Smith says it was first noticed in school children in Laredo and spread once classes were back in session.
He adds most of the cases are being reported among school children.
Dr. Smith says there are signs the virus could be slowing down, but also says it’s important to get vaccinated and remember to wash your hands often.
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