TEXAS — New data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows the number of cases of the flu is increasing sharply across the country. It also shows Texas in the “high” category for flu activity. While it’s not one of the states at the “very high” level, doctors said the rate in Texas is still concerning.
“We’re seeing doubling of cases, you know, so it’s definitely going up. If you look at a graph between now and say, you know, six weeks ago, I mean you’ll see that curve almost go straight up,” said Dr. Joseph Chang, chief medical officer at Parkland Health.
Chang said they have seen flu-related hospitalizations rise, and their case numbers rise as well.
(Centers for Disease Control)
“We definitely have more cases. But last year, we had more severe enough to be admitted than this year,” Chang said.
The CDC estimates that at least 7,500,000 illnesses, 81,000 hospitalizations and 3,100 deaths are due to flu so far this season. Chang said the numbers are most likely higher than what’s being reported because not everyone will get tested for the flu.
The current seasonal flu vaccine offers only partial protection against getting sick, according to Chang. However, he said it remains effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalizations and death. Chang said it’s not too late to get the shot because flu season has another three to four months to go.
“If you were going to get sick for five days, now you’ll only get sick for three if you have the vaccine. So absolutely still helps. Everyone should still get it,” he said.