(WBAP/KLIF) — The flu season has begun, and experts are warning that a hazardous season could be on the horizon for North Texas. The reason for the alarm is due to research involving the flu season in the southern hemisphere, where countries were combating their winter flu season while Texas was in the heat of summer.
Data from Australia and South America indicates an intense and early flu season, which could be a precursor to sweeping cases popping up in North Texas. According to Tarrant County Chief Epidemiologist Russ Jones, one difference that the DFW area will experience this year, compared to previous years, is the fact that more residents in the Metroplex are gathering in larger groups and mingling in a variety of activities. Another factor is that over the past two years, intense COVID-19 protection measures were in place, which virtually stopped the flu in its tracks during 2020 and 2021.
Jones says that the key preventative measure is for residents to get enough rest, eat healthy meals, steer clear of those who have the flu, and to receive a flu vaccination, which helps prevent severe symptoms. Residents are able to get flu shots from their medical providers, local pharmacies, or at the Tarrant County Public Health Department.
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