Flu Season in Southeast Texas: What You Need to Know
Flu season has arrived in Southeast Texas, bringing an increase in respiratory viruses across the Golden Triangle. While many people think of the flu as a mild illness, influenza can spread quickly and lead to serious complications—especially for young children, older adults, and those with chronic health conditions.
Understanding how the flu spreads, how to prevent infection, and when to seek medical care can help keep you and your loved ones healthy this season.
When Is Flu Season in Texas?
Flu activity in Texas typically increases in October, peaks between December and February, and can last into May. While influenza viruses can appear at any time of year, cooler months tend to bring higher transmission as families spend more time indoors.
Local hospitals and clinics also see a rise in other respiratory illnesses during this time, including RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) and COVID-19, which can cause similar symptoms. RSV is a common cause of severe respiratory illness in infants and older adults, and protecting vulnerable populations through prevention and early care remains important.
How the Flu Spreads
Influenza viruses are highly contagious and spread mainly through droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people nearby—or settle on surfaces like door handles, phones, and countertops.
You can also become infected by touching a contaminated surface and then touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Because the virus can survive on surfaces for several hours, good hygiene practices—especially handwashing and disinfecting high-touch areas—are essential in homes, schools, and workplaces across Beaumont, Port Arthur, and Orange.
Ways to Prevent the Flu and Other Respiratory Illnesses
Protecting yourself and your family from the flu involves a mix of preventive habits and proactive healthcare.
Here’s how to lower your risk:
- Get your annual flu shot. The CDC recommends yearly flu vaccination for everyone six months and older. The vaccine helps prevent infection and reduces the severity of illness if you do get sick. It’s especially important for older adults, pregnant women, and those with asthma, diabetes, or heart disease.
- Get both your flu and COVID-19 vaccines. According to the CDC, it’s safe and effective to receive both during the same appointment. Adults over 65 and people with chronic conditions are encouraged to stay current on both for stronger protection during respiratory virus season.
- Wash your hands often. Use soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds—especially before eating, after coughing or sneezing, and after being in public.
- Cover coughs and sneezes. Use your elbow or a tissue to prevent spreading germs.
- Avoid touching your face. The eyes, nose, and mouth are common entry points for the virus.
- Stay home if you feel sick. Rest and avoid contact with others until at least 24 hours after your fever is gone without medication.
- Clean high-touch surfaces daily. Disinfect phones, keyboards, light switches, and doorknobs during flu season.
- Support your immune system. Eat nutritious foods, stay hydrated, and get enough rest to help your body fight off illness.
Recognizing Flu Symptoms
Flu symptoms can appear suddenly and often include:
- Fever or chills
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Muscle or body aches
- Headache
- Fatigue or weakness
Children may also experience nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Because flu symptoms can resemble those of COVID-19 or RSV, testing may help determine which virus is responsible and guide treatment.
When to Seek Emergency Care
Most people recover from the flu with rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medications. However, serious cases can develop quickly.
Seek emergency care if you or a loved one experience:
- Trouble breathing or shortness of breath
- Chest pain or pressure
- Persistent high fever
- Confusion, dizziness, or fainting
- Bluish lips or face
- Signs of dehydration (such as very little urine output or dry mouth)
For children, seek emergency care if they:
- Breathe rapidly or have trouble catching their breath
- Have a persistent fever
- Are unusually sleepy, irritable, or unresponsive
- Show signs of dehydration (no tears, dry mouth, few wet diapers)
Advanced Emergency Care in Southeast Texas
Beaumont Emergency Hospital provides 24/7 emergency care for adults and children experiencing severe flu or respiratory symptoms. Our board-certified physicians and on-site lab testing allow for fast diagnosis and treatment.
Whether it’s a high fever, dehydration, or breathing difficulty, you can count on our team for expert medical care delivered with compassion and urgency.
Stay Healthy This Season
Flu activity in Southeast Texas typically peaks between December and February, but prevention starts early.
Get your flu shot, wash your hands frequently, and stay home when you’re sick to protect yourself, your family, and the entire Golden Triangle community.
Beaumont Emergency Hospital proudly serves residents of Beaumont, Port Arthur, Orange, and surrounding Southeast Texas areas.
If you experience severe flu symptoms or breathing difficulties, visit us anytime — we’re open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.