The Flu in Lubbock

"I would say in the past two weeks, since the weather changed, it brought in a whole new group of viruses and infections,” says Dr. David Long of the Lakeridge Primary Health Center. Dr. Long says he expects to be busy this time of year. Dr. Long also says when the weather changes we feel it in more ways than one; with colds, and of course the flu. Dr. Long says they saw their first confirmed flu of the year just last week. "I'm sure there will be more to come. So, get your flu shots, wash your hands, every time you think about it cover your mouth when you cough, and limit your exposure to other people who are sick,” says Dr. Long.

Dr. Long says your flu shot doesn't keep you in the clear. "It can take about two weeks before your immune system can appropriately respond to that immunization. And two, if you feel feverish and sick after you've gotten you vaccine, there is a zero percent chance that the vaccine caused you to have the flu. That is your immune system appropriately responding, causing you to feel a little be feverish and achy. That's a good sign that the vaccine took,” says Dr. Long.

Dr. Long says it would be impossible to tell you what has been causing all those bugs lately, but he says he'll work his hardest to keep those bugs at bay. "A lot of times people think they ought to be better when they pull out of the parking lot. I can't produce that, but I hope they'll feel better in the next few days and educate them it, then I think I've done about all I can,” says Dr. Long.

The doctor also says if you have some congestion, it may be best to seek over-the-counter remedies first. He says you should always pay attention to make sure the medication does not conflict with any pre-existing medical conditions. However, he says if you don’t feel better in a few days, it may be time to see your doctor.