Clear Lake ER warns of the increases cases of influenza cases in Texas

Whether people are ready or not, flu season is upon us. Clear Lake ER is readying itself to treat the increased influenza cases that will likely be seen in the Houston area.

Earlier this month the State of Texas was upgraded from sporadic to local activity according to the CDC. This means that more and more influenza cases are likely to appear within the next few weeks. To see the latest update for the country, visit http://www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/usmap.htm.

“Every year, usually in January or February, a wave of illness spreads across the country as the influenza virus spreads from person to person,” said Louis Reyna IV of Clear Lake ER. “Influenza kills 36,000 Americans every year and makes millions more ill for up to two weeks.  The CDC recommends a yearly influenza vaccination for everyone six months of age or older, but the vaccine is not 100 percent effective. If you believe you have contracted the flu, you should see your doctor promptly, because there are certain antiviral medications that can reduce the length and severity of illness if started in the first 48 hours.”

Patients at higher risk of complications from influenza are children less than 5 years of age, pregnant women and adults over age 65. Patients with chronic lung diseases like asthma or emphysema, patients with heart disease, patients with weakened immune systems, or those with other chronic diseases are also at higher risk of complications.

Though it is late in the season, it is not too late to get the influenza vaccine to reduce the risk of getting the flu by up to 50 percent.

Should someone suspect they have gotten the flu, they should seek medical attention right away to avoid it getting worse or lasting for a longer time. People should watch for symptoms that include fever (usually over 101.5 degrees), cough, headache, sore throat, body aches, and generalized weakness and fatigue. With some strains of influenza, nausea and vomiting are common.

Before seeing a doctor, those inflicted should stay hydrated and avoid taking aspirin, which could cause liver failure with the flu.

If the doctor is booked or it’s the weekend, Clear Lake ER is open from 7 a.m. until 11 p.m. every day. All patients are evaluated by a board certified physician within minutes, and should a hospital stay be needed, Clear Lake ER will transfer patients to the hospital of their choice.

Clear Lake ER is located at 2409 Falcon Pass in Houston. Reach them at 281-402-9237 or view the website www.clearlakeer.com.

 

About Clear Lake ER

Located right in the heart of Clear Lake, the medical facility provides high quality emergency care without the wait that most expect from an emergency department. They are open late and on weekends and no appointment is necessary. The professional and experienced staff can treat any type of emergency in people of all ages, from infants to adults.