Laredo, Texas – The City of Laredo Public Health Department is advising the community of an increase in influenza like illness activity. Recent surveillance data shows a steady rise in influenza like illness related clinic visits over the past several weeks, with Week 47 reflecting the highest weekly count reported so far this year. This increase follows a period of lower activity during the mid year months and aligns with the seasonal pattern commonly seen during the fall and winter months. Influenza like illness, often abbreviated ILI, includes symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, fatigue, and body aches.
This rise has also been observed through wastewater based surveillance. Wastewater monitoring is an established public health tool that detects viral material from the community’s sewage system. Because people infected with influenza may shed virus in wastewater even before symptoms appear or when they do not seek medical care, wastewater signals can act as an early indicator of increased community transmission.
Residents who wish to view the weekly report and wastewater surveillance information may visit
https://www.cityoflaredo.com/departments/health-department/services/epi-phep
Residents are reminded that vaccination remains the most effective way to reduce the risk of flu related complications and protect themselves and others.
Residents are encouraged to take the following protective measures:
• Choose to be vaccinated. Flu vaccines are available at the City of Laredo Public Health Department, local healthcare providers, and retail pharmacies throughout the community.
• Stay home if you are sick to prevent spreading illness to others.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water.
• Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your sleeve.
• Consider wearing a mask if you are feeling unwell or will be in crowded areas.
• Clean frequently touched surfaces regularly.
• Speak with your healthcare provider if you are at higher risk for complications including older adults, young children, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic health conditions.
Preventative Care Services, flu vaccinations, and respiratory illness testing are available Monday through Friday at the City of Laredo Public Health Department. Community members are encouraged to take advantage of these services early in the season to help reduce the spread of flu and other respiratory illnesses.
The City of Laredo Public Health Department will continue monitoring influenza like illness trends through clinic based data and wastewater based surveillance and will provide updates as needed. Residents are encouraged to follow our official channels for ongoing information and public health guidance.
