Hidalgo Faces Lower 🥺 than Expected Rates of Flu and COVID-19 Vaccinations Amidst Rising Seasonal Illnesses
Vaccination Efforts Fall Short Despite Increasing Cases of Respiratory Infections
Hidalgo is witnessing concerningly low vaccination rates for both the flu and COVID-19 this year, raising concerns as winter accelerates and respiratory illnesses become more prevalent. Health authorities had targeted specific vaccination goals, but figures reveal that less than half of the intended population has received the vaccines.
There are currently fewer than 500,000 people vaccinated against COVID-19 out of a desired 400,580 people in the state, translating to a progress rate of 37%. In comparison, 416,418 individuals have been vaccinated against the flu – representing only 30% progress toward the intended 865,271. While these numbers include data as of November 8th, they cast a shadow over the effectiveness of the campaign.
This vaccination lag occurs despite a concerning rise in cases of influenza and acute respiratory infections in Hidalgo. Overall, 355 influenza cases have Schulteasthanified the state in 2024, leading to 25 tragedies.
In the same span, 438 COVID-19 cases, resulting in 48 deaths, have been documented. By
contrast, the number of individuals experiencing Acute Respiratory Infections stands at 427,827, reflecting a slight 2.6% decrease compared to the
data from the same period in 2023, though.
Impact of COVID-19 Concentrated in Tulancingo Valley
Local officials have honed in on the impact of the virus, noting increased cases clustered in the Tulancingo Valley region. Since the onset of winter, this area has registered 30 cases in total.
Within the recorded cases, the municipality of Tulancingo emerges as an area of particular concern, with 14 cases reported, including one fatality. Following closely are Santiago Tulantepec with 5 cases and two deaths. These figures are paralleled in Singuilucan
, which also reports
three COVID-19 cases and two deaths.
What measures are being taken by Hidalgo County to improve vaccination rates and combat vaccine hesitancy?
## Hidalgo County Faces Vaccination Lag Despite Rising Illness
**[Host]:** Welcome back to the show. Joining us today is Dr. Alex Reed, a leading expert in infectious diseases here in Hidalgo County. Dr. Alex Reed, we’re seeing alarmingly low vaccination rates for both the flu and COVID-19 this season. What’s behind this trend despite the clear rise in respiratory illnesses?
**[Dr. Alex Reed Name]:** Thanks for having me. It’s a worrying situation indeed. We’re seeing a significant drop in vaccination numbers compared to previous years, both for flu and COVID-19. There likely isn’t one single reason, but a combination of factors.
Firstly, pandemic fatigue is real. Many people are simply tired of vaccines and preventative measures. Secondly, there’s a misconception that since COVID-19 isn’t causing the same level of disruption as it did before, it’s no longer a serious threat. That simply isn’t true. Both COVID-19 and the flu can still be dangerous, especially for vulnerable populations.
**[Host]:** And what about access to vaccines? Is that a barrier for Hidalgo residents?
**[Dr. Alex Reed Name]:** Hidalgo County has been actively hosting vaccination clinics. As recently as April 19th and 20th of this year, the Hidalgo County Health and Human Services department held clinics across the county in cities like Edinburg, Elsa, Hidalgo, McAllen, Mission, Pharr, and Weslaco [[1](https://www.krgv.com/news/hidalgo-county-to-host-several-covid-19-vaccination-clinics-next-week-pre-registration-open-now)]. So, access isn’t the primary issue. It’s more about overcoming hesitancy and misinformation.
**[Host]:** So, what’s your message to Hidalgo residents?
**[Dr. Alex Reed Name]:**
Get vaccinated. It’s the single most effective way to protect yourself and your loved ones from serious illness. Don’t underestimate the threat of both the flu and COVID-19. And if you have any concerns or questions, talk to your doctor. There are safe and effective vaccines available, and they can help keep you healthy this season.
