Flu season has arrived in Kingwood and the surrounding Northeast Houston area. While many people think of the flu as a mild illness, influenza and other respiratory viruses can spread quickly and lead to serious complications—especially for young children, older adults, and those with chronic health conditions. Understanding how the flu spreads, how to prevent infection, and when to seek medical care can help keep you and your loved ones healthy this season.
When Is Flu Season in Texas?
Flu activity in Texas typically increases in October, peaks between December and February, and can last into May. While the flu can appear any time of year, the cooler months bring higher transmission as families spend more time indoors.
Local hospitals and clinics often see a rise in other respiratory viruses this time of year, including RSV and COVID-19, which can cause similar symptoms. Taking preventive measures now helps reduce your risk of severe illness and keeps our community healthier throughout the season.
How the Flu Spreads
Influenza viruses are highly contagious and spread mainly through droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people nearby or settle on surfaces like door handles, phones, and countertops.
You can also get sick by touching a contaminated surface and then touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Because the virus can survive on surfaces for several hours, good hygiene practices—especially handwashing—are key to slowing its spread in homes, schools, and workplaces throughout Kingwood and Humble.
Ways to Prevent the Flu and other Respiratory Illnesses
Preventing the flu takes a combination of healthy habits and proactive care.
Here’s how to lower your risk:
- Get your annual flu shot. The CDC recommends yearly flu vaccination for everyone six months and older. The vaccine helps prevent infection and reduces the severity of symptoms if you do get sick. It’s especially important for older adults, pregnant women, and people with asthma, diabetes, or heart disease. Most pharmacies and clinics in Kingwood, Humble, and Atascocita offer flu shots starting each fall.
- You can also receive the flu and COVID-19 vaccines together. According to 2025 CDC guidance, it’s safe and effective to get both during the same appointment. Adults 65 and older and those with chronic health conditions are especially encouraged to stay up to date on both vaccines for stronger protection during respiratory virus season. Learn more at CDC: Stay Up to Date with COVID-19 Vaccines.
- Wash your hands often. Use soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds—especially before eating, after coughing or sneezing, and after being in public.
- Cover coughs and sneezes. Use your elbow or a tissue to prevent spreading germs.
- Avoid touching your face. The eyes, nose, and mouth are common entry points for the virus.
- Stay home if you feel sick. Rest and avoid contact with others until at least 24 hours after your fever is gone without medication.
- Clean high-touch surfaces daily. Disinfect phones, keyboards, light switches, and doorknobs during flu season.
- Support your immune system. Eat nutritious foods, stay hydrated, exercise regularly, and get plenty of rest.
In addition to the flu, other respiratory illnesses like RSV and COVID-19 continue to circulate. Staying up to date on recommended vaccinations—including the updated COVID-19 booster—can further reduce your risk of serious illness.
Recognizing Flu Symptoms
Flu symptoms often appear suddenly and may include:
- Fever or chills
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Muscle or body aches
- Headache
- Fatigue or weakness
Children may also experience nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Because early symptoms can resemble those of COVID-19 or RSV, testing may help determine which virus is responsible.
When to Seek Emergency Care
Most people recover from the flu with rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medicine. However, serious cases can develop quickly.
Seek emergency care if you or a loved one experience:
- Trouble breathing or shortness of breath
- Chest pain or pressure
- Persistent high fever
- Confusion, dizziness, or fainting
- Bluish lips or face
- Signs of dehydration, such as very little urine output or dry mouth
For children, get emergency care if they:
- Breathe rapidly or have trouble catching their breath
- Have a persistent fever
- Are unusually sleepy, irritable, or unresponsive
- Show signs of dehydration (no tears, dry mouth, few wet diapers)
Elite Hospital Kingwood provides 24/7 emergency care for adults and children with severe flu or respiratory symptoms. Our board-certified physicians and on-site lab testing allow for fast diagnosis and treatment—often with wait times under 10 minutes.
Stay Healthy This Season
Flu activity in Texas typically peaks between December and February, but prevention starts early.
Get your flu shot, wash your hands frequently, and stay home when you’re sick to protect yourself, your family, and the Kingwood community.
Elite Hospital Kingwood proudly serves residents of Kingwood, Humble, Atascocita, Porter, and surrounding Northeast Houston neighborhoods.
If you experience severe flu symptoms or breathing difficulties, visit us anytime—we’re open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.