Flu shots advised as Houston sees early flu uptick

Houston-area doctors are warning families to take early action before flu activity peaks.

“We’re definitely seeing an uptick,” said Dr. Tyeshia Babineaux, pediatrician with Texas Children’s Pediatrics. “From babies to school-age kids, we’re seeing flu cases show up earlier than last year. It’s not at its peak yet, but it’s already here.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported 216 pediatric flu-related deaths nationwide during the 2024–25 season, the highest total in a non-pandemic year since the agency began tracking pediatric deaths two decades ago. Nearly 90% of those children were not fully vaccinated, and more than 48,000 were hospitalized.

Medical experts say that flu season in Houston began in mid-September, earlier than usual.

“Families should get flu shots as soon as they become available,” said Dr. Neelima Kale, senior vice president of clinical affairs at Legacy Community Health. “They usually arrive around mid-September or early October. It takes a couple of weeks for your body to build immunity, so the earlier, the better.”

The flu season typically starts in October, peaks between December and February, and can last through March, according to the CDC.

Flu vaccines vary in effectiveness from year to year depending on circulating strains, but they consistently reduce severe illness and hospitalizations. The CDC estimates vaccines prevented nearly 10 million flu cases and 7,900 deaths during the 2023–24 season.

Spotting symptoms

Dr. Tyeshia Babineaux, pediatrician with Texas Children’s Pediatrics

Because the flu, COVID-19, and RSV (Respiratory syncytial virus) often circulate at the same time, parents may have difficulty distinguishing between them.

“The common cold comes on slowly,” Kale said. “Flu and COVID hit you hard and fast. If your child isn’t drinking water, seems unusually tired, or has a high fever, it’s time to see a doctor.”

Babineaux said one of the clearest signs of flu is how sick a child feels. “The flu makes you feel like you’ve been run over by a bus,” she said. “You see fever, fatigue, and body aches. With a cold, kids can usually still play and go about their day. With the flu, they’re down.”

Doctors can perform rapid tests for flu, COVID-19, and RSV in clinics to guide treatment. Flu antiviral medications are available for children if diagnosed early.

Health professionals emphasized that basic hygiene remains one of the most effective defenses.

“Wash your hands, cover your cough, and stay home when you’re sick,” Kale said. “If your immune system is vulnerable and you’re in a crowded place, wearing a mask still helps.”

Babineaux said child care centers and schools play a key role in limiting the spread. “Children sneeze, cough, and touch everything,” she said. “Regularly cleaning shared surfaces, teaching kids to cover their coughs with their elbows, not their hands, and using sanitizer can make a big difference.”

Affordable options for families

For families concerned about cost, both Legacy Community Health and Texas Children’s Hospital offer vaccination support. Legacy provides sliding-scale payment options for uninsured patients and operates 39 school-based clinics across the Houston area.

Texas Children’s participates in the Vaccines for Children program, which provides free immunizations for children regardless of insurance status.

“You can bring your child for checkups and routine vaccinations,” Babineaux said. “We’ll see them regardless of ability to pay. The key is making sure they’re protected.”

Parents should prioritize vaccinations not only for their children but for everyone in the household. Healthy habits support immunity throughout the season.

“Make sure kids get enough rest, eat balanced meals, and wash their hands,” Babineaux said. “These are simple things that help protect families.”