As flu cases surge in North Texas, parents and caregivers are grappling with distinguishing flu symptoms from those of COVID-19 and other respiratory infections.
The spike in flu cases has been notable, particularly following children returning to school and spending more time together. During the week of January 21, Children's Health saw 596 flu cases systemwide. That was a 46% jump over the previous week, and is the highest volume of cases Children's Health has recorded in a week since 2022.
"We've seen more and more tests turn up positive for influenza, leading to more kids with fevers, body aches, and flu-like symptoms," says Dr. Preeti Sharma, a pediatric pulmonologist at Children’s Health.
So how do you tell the difference between flu, COVID-19 and RSV?
"The only surefire way to know is through PCR testing or point of care testing with a nasal swab. If there's concern, it's essential to reach out to your healthcare provider and seek guidance," Dr. Sharma said.
And when should you seek medical care instead of trying to treat symptoms at home?
"There's concern about not eating and drinking enough to maintain hydration, respiratory distress, like working so hard to breathe that they're not catching their breath. Those are reasons for urgent evaluation," stated Dr. Sharma.
Dr. Sharma emphasized the importance of annual influenza vaccination, as flu cases may persist well into the spring, underscoring that it is still beneficial for those who have not yet been vaccinated.
"If you haven't been vaccinated and would like to do so, there is still time, and it is still beneficial," she advised.
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