Flu and RSV Cases Surge
As the flu season progresses, our AFC Urgent Care clinics are seeing a sharp rise in flu and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) cases. Understanding the current trends and risks is crucial for keeping you and your family safe.
Flu Cases Spike Dramatically
The first week of December saw relatively few flu cases diagnosed across our clinics—However, the numbers skyrocketed by nearly 500% over the holidays.
This increase reflects broader trends in Texas, where the latest report from the Department of State Health Services shows that 21% of all tested respiratory specimens are positive for flu.
RSV: A Growing Concern
In addition to the flu, RSV remains a significant threat, especially for young children and older adults. Approximately 20% of non-influenza virus tests in Texas are returning positive for RSV. While RSV can often present with cold-like symptoms, it can quickly become severe, particularly in infants and seniors.
Why Early Intervention Matters
Early detection and treatment are critical for both influenza and RSV. For older adults and those with underlying health conditions, the flu can rapidly escalate into pneumonia or other life-threatening complications. Similarly, RSV can lead to severe respiratory distress in young children and seniors.
If you or your loved ones are experiencing symptoms such as fever, cough, body aches, or difficulty breathing, don’t delay—visit your nearest AFC Urgent Care clinic. Our team can provide timely care and treatment to help prevent complications.
How to Stay Protected
- Get Vaccinated: It’s not too late to get your flu shot. Vaccination significantly reduces the risk of severe illness and hospitalization.
- Practice Good Hygiene: Wash your hands frequently, avoid close contact with sick individuals, and disinfect commonly touched surfaces.
- Know the Symptoms: Be aware of the signs of flu and RSV. Early diagnosis can make all the difference in treatment outcomes.
- Wear Masks in Crowded Areas: If you’re in a high-risk group or visiting areas with high transmission rates, consider wearing a mask.
AFC Urgent Care Is Here for You
At AFC Urgent Care, we are committed to keeping our communities healthy. Whether you need a flu vaccine, RSV testing, or immediate care for respiratory symptoms, we’re here to help. Stay vigilant this season, and remember, - early intervention saves lives. Visit our clinics for compassionate, expert care when you need it most.
Sources:
- Texas Department of State Health Services Respiratory Virus Surveillance Report
- AFC Urgent Care Patient Data
