Flu Season Arrives in Texas

There was one state reporting above-average influenza detections last week.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) week #36 report, last week's seasonal flu rates were low nationally, with 253 (.07%) positive specimens.

However, the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) reported (1.01%) of influenza samples tested were positive as of September 15, 2023.

The number of Texas regions reporting increased flu activity was four, while three reported decreased activity.

While the 2023-2024 flu season has not officially begun, the current season continues producing related fatalities.

As of September 14, 2023, the National Center for Health Statistics Mortality Surveillance listed pneumonia as an underlying or contributing cause of death on 1,029 death certificates and 12 listed influenza last week.

During the current flu season, 174 influenza-associated pediatric deaths have occurred.

Last season, Texas reported a total of 9,871 pneumonia and influenza-related deaths.

For most persons older than six months, only one dose of an influenza vaccine is recommended by the CDC. And vaccination should ideally be offered during September or October.

However, the CDC says vaccinations should continue throughout the flu season as long as viruses are circulating.