Dial 2-1-1 for Flu Advice

Flu season is upon us, and to help us through it, the Department of State Health Services has set up a flu hotline.  Texans simply have to dial 2-1-1 on their telephone to receive medical guidance on what they should do if they or a family member has flu-like symptoms.

The hotline is staffed with medical professionals 24/7 who can provide information on how to manage the flu-like symptoms or when it is necessary to seek further medical or emergency room care.  They will also have access to flu vaccine availability for both individuals and health care providers.

Dr. David Lakey, commissioner of the Texas Department of State Health Services says, “We want to help people make informed decisions about how to care for themselves and their families.  Most H1N1 and seasonal flue cases can be successfully treated at home, without an unneccessary trip to the emergency room.”

Basic flu symptoms include fever, cough, and sore throat that usually comes on suddenly.  Most cases are relatively mild to moderate and do not need a trip to the emergency room.  Most individuals with the H1N1 or seasonal flu just need lots of fluids, fever reducing medication, rest and careful monitoring.   Recovering at home helps keep the spread of the flu at bay, while not clogging up the emergency rooms for unnecessary visitors.

Do keep in mind that if you have an underlying medical condition and think you have any flu-like symptoms, you should contact your physician right away. 

2-1-1 Texas Information and Referral Network is operated by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission.  For more information about the flu in Texas, you can visit:  www.TexasFlu.org .