Flu Season Hits Midland-Odessa: What You Need to Know

As cooler weather invades the Midland-Odessa region, residents should be aware of more than just the cooler temperatures.

The risk of contracting influenza (the flu) is a significant concern.

Most of us have experienced the flu at some point in our lives; it, for the most part, is a horrible experience.

In the Permian Basin, crowded indoor spaces and an unpredictable flu season make this period a noteworthy issue.

Get our free mobile app

For many, it begins suddenly with fever, chills, a deep cough, and muscle aches.

Influenza in Texas

Here in Texas, flu season typically kicks off in October and can linger into May, meaning the region is vulnerable well beyond the colder months.

Locally, data from Midland Memorial Hospital shows flu-like illness cases growing strongly in December, illustrating how the virus marches in even while holiday gatherings are high on the calendar.

Influenza Prevention

For residents of Midland-Odessa, protection starts with common sense blended with public health advice.

Getting the annual flu vaccine remains the first line of defense: according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), everyone six months and older should receive a flu shot each season, and ideally by the end of October to catch early circulation.

Read More: Holiday Blues Hit Hard in Midland-Odessa: Here's Why You Aren't Alone

Beyond vaccination, simple everyday tips can help: washing hands, covering coughs and sneezes, staying home when ill, and cleaning surfaces that multiple people touch.

These are part of Texas's official prevention guidelines and should be followed to prevent potentially catching influenza.