It’s winter in Lubbock, which means three things: the air hurts your face, everyone’s “just got allergies,” and flu cases are climbing like rent prices. According to the CDC, this flu season has already racked up 11 million illnesses, 120,000 hospitalizations, and 5,000 deaths nationwide. But don’t worry—we’re just now noticing because someone on Facebook canceled dinner plans.
A Texas Tech Physicians doctor, Dr. Joshua McGuire, gently explained the shocking concept that when a bunch of people pack into small spaces, viruses tend to spread. This apparently includes holiday travel, family gatherings, and whatever unventilated indoor situation you insisted was “worth it.” Hospitalizations hit a near 30-year high in late December, and Dr. McGuire says the flu hasn’t even peaked yet. Fun times ahead.
Right now, flu A is making the rounds, but other strains could pop up too—because why stop at one? The medical advice is exactly what it’s been for years: wash your hands, avoid cramming into crowded spaces, wear a mask, and maybe don’t show up sick to everything like it’s a personality trait.
If you do get sick, the recommendation is to get tested and stay home instead of sharing your germs like they’re party favors. Dr. McGuire also reminded everyone that even if you usually “power through” illnesses, some people can’t—an idea that remains deeply offensive to the rugged individualism crowd.
So as flu season rolls on through March, maybe the real miracle would be Lubbock discovering that basic public health advice isn’t a personal attack—right?