Health officials report flu A surge during peak season in Lubbock

Hospitals and clinics in Lubbock and across Texas are seeing a mix of respiratory illnesses this season, including the flu, the common cold, and COVID-19. Local health officials say most flu cases are occurring in variant A.

According to new information from Lubbock Public Health, influenza A is the most common type in the area, as it is across the state. The head of the department, Katherine Wells, said that surveillance data from Texas shows that about 85% of flu cases identified and given a subtype are influenza A.

"Right now, we are seeing a lot of flu A going around," Wells said, adding that this is typical of what health workers see during flu season.

Wells said that both kinds of flu are present in the area, though flu A is the most common. There are two types of flu in Lubbock, she said. "We have diagnosed both flu A and flu B." The difference between the two types is genetics. Wells said, "It is just a difference in the virus's genes."

Health experts say flu symptoms can include fever, headache, and breathing problems such as a stuffy nose and coughing. Because flu symptoms can be similar to those of other respiratory illnesses, like COVID-19, Wells told people to get tested if their symptoms were severe or did not go away, especially if they were at higher risk of getting sick.

This is the time of year when more than one virus is likely to be circulating. Public health officials have warned that the simultaneous spread of influenza, COVID-19, and other respiratory viruses can strain health systems and increase the risk of severe disease, especially among older adults, children, and people with underlying health conditions.

Wells stressed that getting a flu shot remains the best way to reduce the risk of serious illness from the virus. She said, "We will always say that the flu shot is best for everyone six months and older."

Along with immunizations, Lubbock Public Health continues to stress the importance of taking simple steps every day to stop the spread of sickness. Wells advised the residents to cover their mouths when coughing or sneezing, wash their hands frequently, and stay home if they were sick.

To keep other people in the community safe, she said, "Make sure you cover your mouth when you sneeze or cough and stay home if you are sick, especially if you have a fever."

Health experts say that the number of flu cases changes a lot during the winter and can last into early spring. As the flu season persists, health experts advise individuals to remain vigilant, monitor their symptoms, and adopt preventive measures to halt the disease's spread.

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