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El Paso's Flu Season Insights: Vaccination Rates Decline Amid Rising Cases

El Paso Matters•Monday, January 5, 2026 at 2:00 PM•Priscilla Totiyapungprasert

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El Paso's flu and COVID-19 cases peaked in mid-December, according to Dr. Hector Ocaranza, the city's health authority. Despite the rise in infections, vaccination rates have significantly dropped this season compared to last year, influenced by misinformation and public misconceptions about vaccine safety. Wastewater surveillance indicates an increase in respiratory viruses, including RSV, which poses a higher risk to infants. Health officials emphasize the importance of vaccination and maintaining good health practices to mitigate the impact of respiratory illnesses during the peak season.

Key Details: • Flu and COVID-19 cases peaked mid-December, with ongoing monitoring. • Vaccination rates have decreased significantly; public health clinics offer free immunizations. • RSV poses a risk, particularly to infants; pregnant individuals are advised to get vaccinated. • Common misconceptions about vaccines and respiratory illnesses persist among the public. • Consult healthcare providers for questions about medications like Tylenol and traditional remedies.

health flu vaccination covid-19 rsv

People & Organizations

El PasoCenters for Disease Control and PreventionHector OcaranzaEl Paso Public Health DepartmentTexas Epidemic Public Health Institute

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