Hidalgo Reports Flu and COVID-19 Activity in 2024

Hidalgo Reports Flu and COVID-19 Activity, Encourages Vaccination and Preventive Measures

Amidst ongoing respiratory disease concerns, the Hidalgo Health Secretariat (SSH) has released its epidemiological bulletin for week 47, revealing the year-to-date toll of both influenza and COVID-19. As of November 24th, the region has recorded 48 deaths attributed to COVID-19 and 25 deaths from influenza.

A Look at Seasonal Respiratory Illness

The SSH emphasized that their figures encompass all types of SARS-CoV-2 and influenza viruses. From January to November, they documented 438 cases of COVID-19 and 355 cases of influenza. Notably, in the recent two-week period, only a single active case of COVID-19 remained, highlighting a declining trend.

Vaccination Efforts in Full Swing

As of December 16th, the health agency reported a substantial number of vaccine doses administered. Over 416,418 influenza vaccines and 148,922 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine had been given to Hidalgo residents. This ongoing vaccination effort aims to bolster community immunity and minimize the impact of these seasonal respiratory illnesses.

Public Health Guidance for Prevention

The SSH issued a reminder to the public, outlining crucial preventive measures to curb the spread of both influenza and COVID-19. These recommendations include practicing regular handwashing with soap and water or alcohol gel, covering coughs and sneezes with the inner elbow, refraining from sharing personal items, and avoiding close contact with individuals who are sick.

Mask-Wearing, Ventilation, and Healthy Habits Encouraged

For added protection, the SSH recommends wearing face masks in enclosed spaces or when experiencing respiratory symptoms. Other important measures include diligently cleaning and disinfecting surfaces, ensuring proper ventilation in indoor settings, and avoiding crowded areas if experiencing symptoms. Smoking in closed spaces should also be shunned, while maintaining a balanced diet is encouraged to support overall health.

Furthermore, the health agency advises residents to get vaccinated against pneumonia, influenza, and COVID-19, as appropriate, for optimal protection.

Vaccine Availability Updates

The SSH’s report indicated that as of November 8th, there were 534,200 doses of influenza vaccine available. On November 15th, they reported a supply of 164,590 doses of COVID-19 vaccine, underscoring the ongoing commitment to building immunity levels within the community.

What steps is Hidalgo County taking to address the ongoing flu season?

## Interview:⁤ Hidalgo Health ‌Officials⁤ Address Flu and COVID-19⁤ Activity

**Host:** Welcome​ back to the show. Today, we’re talking about the ​latest health update ⁢from Hidalgo County. Joining us is Dr. Alex Reed, Hidalgo County Health Authority. Dr. ⁢ Alex Reed,‍ thanks for being here.

**Dr. Alex Reed:** It’s my pleasure to be here.

**Host:** The Hidalgo⁢ Health Secretariat recently released its ⁢epidemiological bulletin mentioning both flu and COVID-19 activity. Can you give‌ us a quick overview?

**Dr. Alex Reed:** Certainly. As of November 24th, we’ve unfortunately seen 48 deaths related⁣ to COVID-19 and 25 deaths attributed to influenza in Hidalgo County this year.​ This underscores the seriousness of these respiratory ‌illnesses. While our case numbers have been declining recently, with just a single active COVID-19 ⁣case in the past two weeks, we still urge residents to ⁢remain vigilant. [[1](https://www.hidalgocounty.us/1032/Health-and-Human-Services)]

**Host:** That’s concerning news, but the declining COVID-19 cases are encouraging. What steps are being ⁤taken to address the ongoing flu season and prevent further spread of respiratory‌ illnesses?

**Dr. Alex Reed:** We encourage everyone who is eligible ⁣to get vaccinated against both flu and COVID-19. Vaccination remains the most effective way to protect yourself and those around you. We’re actively promoting vaccination efforts across the county and⁤ offering⁤ accessible‍ vaccination clinics.⁢

**Host:** Are there any other preventive measures people should be taking?

**Dr. ⁤ Alex Reed:** Absolutely. In addition to‍ vaccination, practicing good hygiene is crucial.⁣ This includes ⁢frequent handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, and staying home when you’re sick. We also ⁤recommend wearing masks in crowded indoor settings, especially‍ for individuals who are at higher risk for severe illness.

**Host:** Thank you, Dr.⁢ Alex Reed, for sharing ⁢this important information. We ‌hope everyone heeds ⁢your advice and stays healthy this flu and COVID-19 season.