Flu rates are climbing across the nation, with a significant increase in positive flu tests reported recently. This rise comes amid concerns about respiratory illnesses, including flu, RSV, and COVID-19, though experts note the risk of a “tripledemic” is lower this season. Current data reveals this year’s rates are the highest in four years, leaving questions about whether the season has peaked or is just beginning.

To combat the flu, health officials stress the importance of prevention measures, including vaccinations, recognizing symptoms like body aches and fatigue, maintaining good hygiene, and staying home when sick. They also encourage seeking medical attention for severe symptoms and highlight that it’s not too late to get vaccinated against multiple illnesses simultaneously.

Highlights of the Podcast

00:01 – Nationwide Flu Rates

00:26 – Insights on Cold and Flu Season

00:36 – Respiratory Illness Trends and Flu Season Peak

01:01 – Flu Prevention Tips

01:24 – Importance of Medical Attention and Vaccination

Host 1 [00:00:00] To a flu alert rates are very high nationwide, according to the CDC. But how are things looking here in Texas? Can survive. Reporter Jeremy Baker digs into the numbers to see how the state is faring right now.

Host 2 [00:00:12] The good news is we aren’t expecting a triple demic of flu, RSV and Covid as Covid rates are only now starting to climb rapidly. But the percent of positive flu tests in Barry County are up almost 70% over last week.

Dr. Matt Chalmers [00:00:26] One of the things that we always say about cold and flu season and it’s always interesting how it coincides with no sleep, high stress, high alcohol and high sugar times.

Host 2 [00:00:36] Here is a chart showing the rates of respiratory illnesses within university health. You can see they’ve been the highest rates this year out of the past four years and it looks like we may have reached the peak of the season already. Or have we?

Speaker 1 [00:00:50] Usually it peaks in February is probably the most common peak, sometimes December, sometimes March. So very well may just be the beginning of flu season. But we won’t know until February. March.

Host 2 [00:01:01] The National Center for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention says to prevent the flu. Make sure you get your flu shot. Know how the flu is spread. And the symptoms of the flu, such as body aches, muscle aches, headache, feeling tired, a cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, nausea and vomiting. Clean hands and surfaces around you. And finally, stay home when you are sick.

Speaker 1 [00:01:24] It’s important when you’re feeling those symptoms. You’re sick, you’re short of breath. You don’t feel well to get checked out by either your physician or coming in to the E.R..

Host 2 [00:01:32] Doctors also say if you haven’t received a vaccination, it’s not too late to get one for any of the illnesses going around. And you can get more than one at the same time. Jerry Baker can spot.

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Dr. Matt Chalmers

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only. Before taking any action based on this information you should first consult with your physician or health care provider. This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions regarding a medical condition, your health, or wellness