There’s Good News in the Latest Reports
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) continues to report elevated levels of flu activity in all regions, but the good news is the virus also shows signs of decrease. Fifteen states and Puerto Rico are currently experiencing high levels of illness, including Texas. For the week ending February 7, the number of states with high flu activity is down from 26 states the previous week.
According to the latest statistics, key indicators of flu severity are moderating or decreasing. The cumulative hospitalization rate for people age 65 years and older – the group with the highest hospitalization rate – has slowed. Also during the week ending February 7, the percentage of positive lab tests for flu viruses decreased from 17.5% to 14.9%.
Antiviral Medication Can Lessen Flu Severity
Because the 2014-15 flu season began relatively early, it’s likely that flu activity will continue for several more weeks. If you begin to experience flu symptoms, antiviral medications can make your illness milder and make you feel better faster. However, it’s critical that antiviral medication be started within the first two days of getting sick for maximum effectiveness.
Anyone at higher risk for complications from the flu should receive prompt antiviral treatment if experiencing symptoms. This includes children younger than 2 years, adults age 65 years and older, those with chronic disease or a suppressed immune system, pregnant women and residents of nursing home facilities.
Get Treated for Flu at RediClinic
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (USDA) has recommended three antiviral medications to treat flu during the 2014-2015 season. You can receive the appropriate antiviral to treat flu in Houston at a RediClinic conveniently located inside or adjacent to H-E-B stores. You can also obtain flu shots at H-E-B RediClinic locations. RediClinic’s board-certified staff treats patients 18 months of age and older, seven days a week, with no appointment necessary.
Find your nearest RediClinic walk-in clinic in Houston, San Antonio, Austin and other major cities.
