How To Avoid That Nasty Texas Flu Going Around

HOUSTON, TX — Texas continues to lead the nation in cases of influenza per Walgreens market data, and local hospitals all over the Lone Star State are filled to capacity with flu cases. But not everyone has come down with the virus nor taken a flu shot.

There have been four confirmed flu-related deaths in the Houston area according to the City of Houston Health Department, including two women in their 60's have died.

Flu symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people also may have vomiting and diarrhea. People may be infected with the flu, and have respiratory symptoms without a fever.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lists three different ways to prevent the flu, with a myriad of suggestions under each prevention method. The first is to still get a flu shot. While there are many different flu viruses, a flu vaccine protects against the viruses that research suggests will be most common. (See Vaccine Virus Selection for this season’s vaccine composition.). Flu vaccination can reduce flu illnesses, doctors’ visits, and missed work and school due to flu, as well as prevent flu-related hospitalizations.

Another is to take an antiviral medicine that helps treat the flu like Tamiflu. Antiviral drugs can make illness milder and shorten the time you are sick. They may also prevent serious flu complications. For people with high risk factors, treatment with an antiviral drug can mean the difference between having a milder illness versus a very serious illness that could result in a hospital stay.

2. Stay home when you are sick.

If possible, stay home from work, school, and errands when you are sick. This will help prevent spreading your illness to others.

3. Cover your mouth and nose.

Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick.

4. Clean your hands.

Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.

5. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.

Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth.

6. Practice other good health habits.

Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces at home, work or school, especially when someone is ill. Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food.
Additionally, the CDC offers three tips specifically to fight the flu, and that includes getting a flu shot for those who haven't done so yet. With cold temperatures lurking in Texas the next week or so, these could be good tips to follow.

Image: Empty vials of influenza virus vaccine sit on a table during a drive-thru flu shot clinic. (Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)