Texas Hill Country Braces for “Cedar Fever” as Flu Season Overlaps
The annual onslaught of pollen from Ashe Juniper trees, often dubbed “mountain cedar,” is peaking in Texas’ Hill Country, creating a challenging season for allergy sufferers – and complicating efforts to distinguish symptoms from the flu.
The period from mid-December to early March typically brings intense discomfort for residents of the Texas Hill Country, the heartland of Ashe Juniper distribution. Pollen levels surge during dry, windy conditions, particularly with the arrival of cold fronts. This year, the timing coincides with the height of flu season, leading to confusion among those experiencing symptoms.
Flu Season Off to a Slower Start, But New Strain Raises Concerns
Local health officials report that this year’s flu season has been less severe than anticipated, at least initially. According to a medical director at Peterson Health Urgent Care, “We are not being inundated with flu patients as I had expected. Only five of the 20 patients that we tested in one day tested positive for the flu.” However, the same source anticipates an increase in cases, mirroring national trends.
A key concern is the emergence of a flu strain – Influenza A (H3N2) with a Subclade K variant – that was not included in this year’s vaccine. This means individuals contracting the flu may experience more severe illness than usual. Despite this, health experts strongly recommend vaccination, particularly for those over 65, individuals with lung disease, smokers, people with diabetes, and those with compromised immune systems.
Distinguishing Between Cedar Fever and the Flu
The overlap between cedar fever and flu season often leads to misdiagnosis. However, medical professionals note key differences. A local physician explained that individuals with a history of cedar allergies “usually know what their symptoms are and know the difference between the flu and allergy.”
Cedar fever typically presents with a prolonged duration – lasting 10 days or more – and rarely causes a high fever. “In most cases, cedar fever does not cause a person to run a fever or a fever of more than 100.4 degrees. A higher fever is more likely the flu,” the physician stated. Common cedar fever symptoms include sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy and watery eyes, throat irritation, fatigue, and general discomfort.
Treatment Options and Preventative Measures
For those suffering from cedar fever, limiting outdoor activity, using air purifiers with HEPA filters, and showering upon returning indoors to remove pollen are recommended. Over-the-counter medications like Allegra, Zyrtec, and Claritin, as well as corticosteroid nose sprays like Astepro and Nasacort, can provide relief.
There is no cure for the flu, but antiviral medications like Tamiflu and XOFLUZA are available by prescription for high-risk patients. While XOFLUZA offers a single-dose convenience, it is significantly more expensive than generic Tamiflu. A physician emphasized the importance of responsible antibiotic use, stating that “Physicians have now become better stewards of the use of both steroids and antibiotics. We prescribe only when appropriate and only when really necessary, because of the potential destructive impact on the body.”
Long-Term Solutions and Allergy Testing
Local allergy-immunologist Dr. Dale Mohar highlights the benefits of allergy skin testing to pinpoint specific triggers, including molds, tree pollens, and pet dander. Once identified, injectable compounds can be formulated to desensitize patients over a period of three years or more. While not always successful – with a failure rate of 10 to 20 percent – immunotherapy can significantly reduce allergic reactions.
Dr. Mohar noted that a “honeymoon period” of one to three years often occurs after moving to the Hill Country before cedar fever symptoms develop. He also pointed out that pollen counts in Kerrville are typically 20 to 30 percent higher than those reported in San Antonio.
Ultimately, understanding the differences between cedar fever and the flu, practicing preventative measures, and seeking appropriate medical attention are crucial for navigating this challenging season in the Texas Hill Country.
