RSV and flu cases on the rise in Rio Grande Valley

MCALLEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Cameron County Health Authority Dr. James Castillo says local cases of influenza (flu) and the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are on the rise.

"The numbers have gone up every week that the reports come out," said Castillo. "It keeps almost doubling every week. So, that's definitely the bigger concern right now.”

He adds that the rise in cases is not expected to slow down with people gathering for the holidays.

Residents like Roger Broitzman say they practice good hygiene and stay away from people who are showing flu-like symptoms to prevent getting sick.

“When you're sick, stay home," Broitzman said. "If you got a cold, stay home and be careful.”

The Texas Department of State Health Services reports that flu and RSV cases have increased significantly based on hospital testing.

All four Rio Grande Valley counties have also reported a rise in local cases.

Some people say they are getting vaccinated and practicing other safety measures.

“The vaccine is to prevent it, so it seems to be working in that sense," said McAllen resident, John Gonzalez. "I juice a lot, I exercise, I stay away from big crowds and it has been working.”

Dr. Castillo says the vaccine is extremely important for older adults and infants.

“For people 60 to 75 who have chronic health problems, there's the option of getting a one time vaccine," he said. "If you're over 75 definitely get this one-time vaccine. And then for pregnant women and babies born during RSV season, there are some treatment options also."

Castillo also adds that facemasks and hand sanitizer may help slow the spread of RSV. Even though the number of cases gets higher each week, he believes the peak has not been reached.

“In other words, we're not at the tail end or the downhill yet," Dr. Castillo said. "So there's definitely a lot more infections to come over the next few weeks, the next month or so. It's recommended to have gotten those vaccines to offer your protection. But if you haven't gotten the vaccine yet, it's not too late.”

As flu and RSV cases are on the rise, Dr. Castillo says COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations are down. However, he does urge people to take these illnesses seriously.