Houston faces a serious flu season as the virus spreads across the city and the broader United States. Health data released on Friday shows that, during the 2024-2025 flu season, thousands have succumbed to the illness nationwide. In the 16-county region of Texas encompassing Harris, Montgomery, Fort Bend, Brazoria, Chambers, and Galveston counties, over 900 deaths have been attributed to pneumonia and influenza-related causes.
A young child in Harris County is among those who have died, according to local health authorities. Officials disclosed the child suffered from other health complications when they passed away in January. Dr. Ericka Brown with Harris County Public Health noted that while most people will endure severe flu symptoms for up to two weeks, certain cases can become severe, leading to increased hospitalizations.
Simultaneously, health experts are closely monitoring the spread of the H5N1 avian influenza virus. This year, concerns have arisen about its transmission to various animal species and a small number of humans. Although the general public’s risk of contracting H5N1 remains low, its ability to infect a wider range of mammals is alarming. Nearly 70 cases of human H5N1 influenza have been reported across the U.S., with the most recent case in Wyoming involving an older woman who is currently hospitalized.
Dr. Janeana White of the Houston Health Department has observed that the region’s flu cases have remained stable but elevated compared to last year. Wastewater testing shows that Influenza A is the leading cause of illness in the area, with Influenza B being less prevalent. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has classified this flu season as having “high severity” for the first time since the 2017-2018 season.
Houston’s hospitals are experiencing significant strain, with many patients admitted due to flu-related complications such as pneumonia. Dr. Robert Atmar, Chief of Infectious Disease at Harris Health Ben Taub Hospital, emphasized the heightened illness level compared to previous years, highlighting the increased hospitalization rates.
Typical influenza symptoms include high fever, cough, sore throat, and muscle aches. Some individuals may experience gastrointestinal issues, though these symptoms are less common. Dr. Atmar warns that pneumonia, either viral or bacterial, is a concern, and urges immediate medical attention if symptoms such as fever resurgence or pus-like phlegm appear.
Nationwide, the CDC estimates at least 29 million illnesses, 370,000 hospitalizations, and 16,000 deaths since the flu season began. Texas has reported five pediatric flu deaths, with one occurring in Harris County. State health data also indicates over 3,700 pneumonia and influenza-related deaths in Texas, predominantly among individuals aged 65 and older.
Those at heightened risk for flu complications include seniors, young children, and individuals with weakened immune systems or chronic health conditions. Health officials strongly advocate for vaccination to help prevent flu spread, stating it is not too late to receive a flu shot. Vaccination can be obtained through insurance, local health departments, or Houston health centers.
Other preventive measures entail frequent hand washing, using hand sanitizer, avoiding contact with sick individuals, and refraining from touching the face. Antiviral medications, such as Tamiflu, are available for those exhibiting flu-like symptoms, especially if administered within 24 hours of onset.
In addition to the flu, health authorities are vigilantly monitoring H5N1 bird flu cases. While human infections are rare, they remain a concern following recent mammal infections. The CDC reports the potential for virus adaptation, increasing the risk of human transmission. However, no current evidence suggests person-to-person H5N1 spread in the U.S.
The Texas Department of State Health Services first detected H5N1 in dairy cattle in March 2024. Since then, nearly 70 cases in the U.S. have been confirmed, though most individuals experienced mild symptoms. Severe illness associated with H5N1 has been reported in other countries, including Canada, where a teenager with asthma required life support.
Precautions against H5N1 include avoiding contact with sick animals, consuming raw milk, and feeding pets raw animal products. Cooking and pasteurization effectively inactivate the virus. Health officials reiterate that although the risk is low, awareness and prevention are crucial in minimizing potential infection.
