The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) has launched a respiratory virus dashboard and reporting system, designed to provide Texans with a real-time view of the presence of any respiratory viruses in the state.

According to a news release from Texas Health and Human Services, the public will have access to this dashboard through the DSHS data site. It will display trends in various viruses, including influenza, COVID-19, and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). The dashboard is set to include data on emergency room visits, hospitalizations, and deaths related to these viruses.

The news release further stated that alongside the dashboard, DSHS plans to publish a weekly respiratory virus surveillance report. This report will amalgamate data on various illnesses into one comprehensive document for Texans. The three viruses most likely to cause serious harm - influenza, COVID-19 and RSV - will be included in this weekly report.

DSHS Commissioner Jennifer Shuford commented on the new initiative in the release. She said, "Those data points demonstrate that diseases' most severe effects on people, communities, and the health care system. The dashboard provides a near real-time look at conditions so people can make informed decisions on precautions for themselves and their families, and health care professionals can make recommendations to their patients."

As per its mission statement available on its website, DSHS aims to enhance public health by promoting and protecting the health of Texans within their communities.

The news release also highlighted that DSHS encourages immunizations as a method for Texans to safeguard themselves against the impacts of respiratory diseases. It could prevent hospitalizations or even death. Additionally, DSHS recommended frequent hand washing with soap and water, covering your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing, and staying home if unwell.