Flu Cases Spike in Texas: The Gift That Keeps on Giving

According to the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Texas has been elevated to "very high" flu activity. We all know about the flu and what the common symptoms are like fevers, runny nose, congestion, and whatnot, but do we all know the specific way in which it's spread? Let's find out together.

Influenza: The Gift that Keeps on Giving

The influenza virus, AKA the flu, is spread by droplets in the air when carriers cough, sneeze, or even just talk. These little flu drops packed tightly with virus then land in other people's mouths, eyes, or lungs after breathing infected air.

Read More: Flu Season in Lubbock: Are You Prepared?

This is why people often sequester themselves when they have the flu since it's highly contagious and has a higher chance of spreading the closer you are to the infected person.

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Just another reason to regularly disinfect your home's surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, countertops, and toilets. Basically, anywhere the infected person placed their grubby little hands is at risk of transferring the flu.

When are You Most Contagious with the Flu?

It may be surprising to some, but you are really most contagious with the flu during the first three days of showing symptoms. After that, your risk of spreading the virus steadily declines even if your symptoms persist.

Symptoms typically start about two days after contracting the flu from someone else. Want to know the fun part? You can still spread the flu to others even if you aren't showing any symptoms whatsoever.

Talk about an easy and free birthday gift.