Winter Illnesses in Dallas-Fort Worth

Last flu season, North Texas saw a significant rise in flu cases, with local hospitals reporting record numbers of patients.

“Knowing when to seek medical care is critical,” said Dr. Brian Mayer, medical director at Legacy ER & Urgent Care.“

Here’s what you need to know about common winter illnesses, how to protect yourself, and when it’s time to visit Legacy ER & Urgent Care.

Flu (Influenza) and COVID-19

Flu, also called influenza, is an infection of the nose, throat, and lungs, which are part of the respiratory system.

Seasonal influenza tends to have worse outcomes in young children, especially those age 2 years and younger. Adults older than age 65 also tend to have worse outcomes. Also, risks of getting the flu are higher for people who are pregnant, obese, or have a weakened immune system.

What are the symptoms? 

• Runny or stuffy nose
• Sore throat
• Fever
• Cough
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Feeling very tired
• Sweating and chills

The flu hit North Texas hard last season. In Dallas County alone, 34.9% of flu tests came back positive during the last week of January 2025, with 185 flu-related hospitalizations reported in just one week.

It’s also recommended that you wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after being in public, and regularly disinfect high-touch surfaces like doorknobs and phones.

While the flu is a familiar seasonal illness, COVID-19 often leads to more severe complications, especially in older adults and those with underlying health conditions. Unlike the flu, COVID-19 is more likely to cause symptoms such as loss of taste or smell, persistent shortness of breath, and extreme fatigue. It also spreads more easily, with a longer incubation period of 2-14 days, allowing the virus to circulate before symptoms appear. Testing is essential to confirm a COVID-19 diagnosis, as its symptoms can overlap with the flu. Staying vigilant and taking preventive measures, like vaccination and good hygiene, are key to protecting yourself and others in the Dallas-Fort Worth community.

Pneumonia

Pneumonia is a serious lung infection that can develop as a complication of the flu or COVID-19. It’s especially dangerous for older adults, young children and people with health problems or weakened immune systems.

It’s an infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs. The air sacs may fill with fluid or pus (purulent material), causing cough with phlegm or pus, fever, chills, and difficulty breathing. A variety of organisms, including bacteria, viruses and fungi, can cause pneumonia. Symptoms usually appear from one to four days after exposure to the virus, and they last five to seven days. But the effects can last several weeks.

When to Seek Medical Care

Knowing when to seek medical care can feel overwhelming, but it’s one of the most important decisions you can make for yourself or your family. At Legacy ER & Urgent Care, we’re here to make that decision easier.

For adults, there are a few red flags you should never ignore. If you’ve had a fever over 101.3°F for more than three days, or you’re struggling with severe shortness of breath, wheezing, or chest pain, it’s time to come in. Other serious signs include a persistent cough that’s producing blood, worsening symptoms, or feeling confused, dizzy, or unusually drowsy.

For children, the signs can be a little different but just as critical. If your newborn (up to 12 weeks old) has a fever of 100.4°F or higher, don’t wait—get them checked out. Fast or labored breathing, bluish lips or nail beds, or persistent fussiness and drowsiness are also reasons to seek care. And if your child’s symptoms seem to improve but then come back worse, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

At Legacy ER & Urgent Care, we take the stress out of seeking medical care by combining emergency and urgent care under one roof. With on-site labs and ER-trained doctors, you can be seen quickly, get tested on the spot, and receive the treatment you need—all in one visit. Whether it’s a minor illness or a more serious condition, we’re here to provide the right care, right when you need it, at the right price, without the guesswork.

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