AUSTIN, TX - As the mercury dips, Texas witnesses a surge in colds and respiratory illnesses, prompting concerns about the onset of this year's flu season and its comparison to the previous year.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) identifies December to February as peak flu season, with February historically marking the apex of flu activity. Last year, Texas experienced its peak in early December, as data compiled by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) revealed.
During the 2022-23 season, Texas recorded its highest positivity rate, reaching 24.5% in early December, determined by the proportion of positive flu tests against the total tests conducted. However, the 2023-24 flu season commenced on October 1st. According to a recent DSHS report dated December 8th, more than 4,700 positive flu cases have been reported, resulting in a seasonal positivity rate of 6.59%.
At Austin's Tarrytown Pharmacy, President and Chief Pharmacy Officer Rannon Ching has noted an upsurge in patients seeking treatment for various colds, allergies, and respiratory conditions. Testing requests for respiratory syncytial virus, flu, COVID-19, and strep have notably increased.
Ching observed a consistent interest in flu vaccinations since their availability in September. Although appointment requests have slightly decreased compared to earlier months, there's been a steady influx of individuals seeking vaccinations before year-end holiday gatherings.
Concerning this year's flu season, Ching anticipates increased respiratory illness activity compared to the pandemic's initial phase when public masking and social distancing were more prevalent. With more people traveling and fewer wearing masks, a resurgence of respiratory illnesses akin to pre-pandemic levels seems likely.
While acknowledging increased interaction among people, Ching highlighted the persistence of cautious behavior in the Austin area, evident in ongoing mask usage, fostering a balanced approach to public safety.
With an estimated nine million Texans expected to travel in December, Ching emphasized the importance of adhering to preventive measures such as frequent handwashing, testing, and masking while traveling to mitigate potential transmission of illnesses.
"As long as people remain mindful of not spreading sickness or illness," Ching advised, "adhering to these simple practices should help ensure safety."
As the community braces for holiday festivities and travel, maintaining vigilance and implementing precautionary measures remain vital to curbing the spread of respiratory illnesses during this flu season.
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