It is not the peak of flu season yet, but doctors say the country is seeing thousands of new cases of the virus every week.
A recently released flu map from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention showed high flu activity in 30 states, including Texas.
The CDC estimates, so far this season, more than six million people have gotten the flu and nearly 3,000 have died. It said 27 of those deaths have been children.
The most recent was in Coppell, where a fifth-grader died from complications with the flu.
In a recent study conducted by Walgreens Pharmacy, Texas is number three in the country for states most impacted by this year’s flu season. Dallas is fifth in the country when it comes to flu activity.
Doctors say the best defense against the flu is the flu shot. Not to mention basic cleaning habits like washing your hands frequently and covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze.
TIPS FOR AVOIDING FLU
- Get a flu vaccine every season, especially people with high risk
- Wash your hands often with soap and water
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick
- Stay home when you are sick
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth
- If you're experiencing flu symptoms, visit your doctor and begin taking antiviral medications to help you recover more quickly
WHAT IS FLU?
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According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus that affects the nose, throat, and lungs. Some people, those age 65 and older or young children, or those with underlying medical conditions, are at higher risk for flu complications. There are two main types of flu, Flu A and Flu B, that are generally responsible for seasonal flu epidemics each year.
Learn more about the flu virus here from the CDC.
