Key Takeaways
- Flu season in Texas generally begins in the fall, peaks in winter, and declines in spring.
- Peak flu activity most often occurs between December and February.
- Flu viruses circulate year-round, but illness and hospitalizations rise during flu season.
- Vaccination, hygiene, and early medical care are key evidence-based prevention and treatment strategies.
- Certain groups face a higher risk of serious flu complications.
When Flu Season Starts, Peaks, and Ends in Texas
Flu season is a recurring public health concern in Texas, with patterns that generally follow national influenza trends while showing some state-specific variation.
Based on surveillance data and public health reporting:
- Flu activity typically increases in the fall, most often beginning in October.
- Peak flu activity usually occurs during the winter months, most commonly December through February.
- Flu activity generally declines in early spring, but Texas often sees measurable flu activity continue into April or May.
Influenza viruses circulate year-round, but illness, hospitalizations, and medical visits increase during the traditional flu season. Timing and severity vary from year to year.
Public health agencies monitor flu activity using laboratory testing, emergency department visits, and hospitalization data.
What the Flu Is
Influenza (the flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that primarily affect the nose, throat, and lungs.
- Seasonal flu in humans is mainly caused by influenza A and B viruses.
- Influenza viruses change over time, which is why flu patterns and vaccine formulations vary by season.
- The flu is different from the common cold and is more likely to cause sudden and severe symptoms.
How the Flu Spreads
High-quality evidence shows that flu spreads mainly through:
- Respiratory droplets released when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks
- Close contact with someone who has influenza
- Touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes
Flu transmission commonly increases during periods of close indoor contact, such as during winter months and holiday gatherings.
Flu Symptoms
Flu symptoms often begin suddenly and may include:
- Fever or chills
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Muscle or body aches
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Vomiting or diarrhea (more common in children)
Flu symptoms can overlap with other respiratory illnesses such as COVID-19 and RSV, which is why testing may be recommended in some situations.
Who Is at Higher Risk for Flu Complications
Certain groups are at higher risk for serious flu-related complications, including:
- Adults aged 65 and older
- Young children
- Pregnant individuals
- People with chronic medical conditions (such as asthma, heart disease, or diabetes)
- People with weakened immune systems
Complications can include pneumonia, worsening of existing medical conditions, and hospitalization.
Testing and Treatment
Flu Testing
Flu testing may be recommended when:
- Symptoms are severe or worsening
- A person is at higher risk for complications
- Test results would affect treatment decisions
Rapid and laboratory-based flu tests are used in clinical settings.
Treatment
flu treatment includes:
- Supportive care, such as rest, fluids, and fever control
- Antiviral medications, prescribed by a healthcare professional
Antiviral medications are most effective when started early, particularly for people at higher risk of complications.
Antibiotics do not treat influenza, because the flu is caused by a virus.
Flu Prevention
prevention strategies include:
- Annual flu vaccination, which reduces the risk of severe illness and hospitalization
- Frequent handwashing
- Covering coughs and sneezes
- Avoiding close contact with sick individuals
- Staying home when ill
- Cleaning high-touch surfaces
Vaccination can still provide benefit even if flu season has already started.
When to See a Doctor
You should consider contacting a healthcare professional if:
- Symptoms are severe or not improving
- Fever lasts several days
- You are in a higher-risk group
- You are concerned about possible complications
Early medical evaluation may help determine whether testing or antiviral treatment is appropriate.
When to Seek Emergency Care
Seek emergency medical care right away if flu symptoms include:
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Chest pain or pressure
- Confusion or inability to stay awake
- Severe dehydration
- Bluish lips or face
- Seizures
These symptoms may indicate serious complications requiring urgent treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is flu season in Texas?
Flu season in Texas generally runs from fall through early spring, with peak activity in winter. Some flu activity may continue into late spring.
When does flu season usually peak?
Flu activity most often peaks between December and February.
Is flu activity the same every year?
No. Timing and severity vary each year depending on circulating viruses and other factors.
Are flu symptoms in Texas different from other states?
No. Flu symptoms are the same regardless of location.
Is it flu season in Texas right now?
Flu activity changes throughout the year. State and federal surveillance dashboards provide current information.
How bad is the flu in Texas this year?
Flu severity is measured using hospitalizations, medical visits, and lab data. Checking official surveillance reports is the most reliable way to assess current conditions.
What flu strains are going around in Texas?
Circulating flu strains vary by season. Health agencies monitor and report on dominant strains.
How long does flu season last?
Flu season typically lasts several months, from fall through spring, but exact duration varies each year.
What flu is going around right now?
There is no high-quality evidence supporting this without current surveillance data.
APA References List
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