Texas Announces Influenza Awareness Day

The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) recently confirmed October 1, 2023, is Influenza Awareness Day, and everyone should prepare themselves to combat this respiratory virus.

DSHS says each flu season in Texas has its own characteristics. 

According to the latest Walgreens Flu Index, Texas is ranked #4 in overall flu cases, with Beaumont-Port Arthur and Corpus Christi in the top ten cities. 

“Seasonal influenza presents a real public health threat to Texans, and immunization remains our best defense against serious flu illness,” said DSHS Commissioner Jennifer Shuford, MD, in a September 29, 2023 press release.

“Other actions can also help protect you and people close to you, like covering coughs and sneezes, washing your hands often, and staying home from work or school when you are sick.”

DSHS recommends Texans six months of age and older get the flu shot by the end of October, as immunization can make flu symptoms less severe and reduce flu-related deaths and hospitalizations.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently confirmed about 10,000 people die each year from influenza.

Influenza viruses are spread mainly by tiny droplets when people with flu talk, sneeze, or cough.

You can also contact your doctor, local health department, or pharmacy to learn where to get a flu shot, says DSHS.

Most Texas pharmacies enable online appointment scheduling and offer a selection of influenza vaccines.

For more information about influenza and how to protect against flu illness, visit dshs.texas.gov/influenza-flu.