At a Glance
- Flu surge in North Texas: over 1,000 positive tests in two weeks.
- New H3N2 subclade K emerging, low immunity.
- Hospitalizations up for seniors and young children.
- Why it matters: People should get vaccinated, watch for severe symptoms, and seek ER care when needed.
While the Fort Worth Stockyards welcomed locals and visitors for a festive New Year’s celebration, health officials warn that a sharp rise in flu cases is sweeping North Texas.
Flu Surge Across North Texas
Dr. Zachary Most of Children’s Health reports that system-wide, more than 1,000 influenza tests returned positive in just the past two weeks, marking a spike in the region.
Kelly Roque says she contracted flu over summer.
> “I had to call out of work the whole week because I was staying in bed, I couldn’t even like do anything,” she said.
Emerging H3N2 Subclade K
Within the H3N2 strain, a new genetic variant called Subclade K is circulating, and most people lack pre-existing immunity.
Dr. Zachary Most said:
> “It’s called the Subclade K, and this is a new newly emerging genetic change in the influenza virus, meaning that most people have never been exposed to it before, and so they probably don’t have a lot of preexisting immunity to it.”
When to Seek Emergency Care
Dr. Zachary Most advises parents to monitor for trouble breathing, severe fatigue, dehydration, seizures, or other worrying signs that may require ER care.
> “That’s a very important question, and there’s a really wide variance in the severity of influenza infections. Most people who get flu are going to get a fever with a cough and a sore throat and maybe get headaches and myalgia and feel quite ill. Some people, especially some children, will get a more mild illness that’s indistinguishable from a cold and some people will get a more severe illness if the flu virus spreads to your lungs and can be pneumonia, in which case you might need care in the hospital,” he said.
- Trouble breathing
- Severe fatigue or malaise
- Dehydration
- Unable to keep fluids down
- Seizures
- Any other worrying symptoms
Hospitalizations are up among seniors and infants. Texas Health and Human Services’ dashboard shows:
| Age Group | Hospitalization Trend |
|---|---|
| 65+ | Up |
| 0-4 | Up |
Dr. Zachary Most also reminds the public that it’s not too late to get the flu vaccine. Other protective measures include hand hygiene and cough etiquette.
Key Takeaways
- Flu cases have spiked with over 1,000 positives in two weeks.
- A new H3N2 subclade K is circulating with little pre-existing immunity.
- Parents should watch for severe symptoms and seek ER care if needed.
With flu cases climbing and a new variant in circulation, residents are urged to stay vigilant, get vaccinated, and seek medical care promptly if symptoms worsen.
