Outbreaks of the virus in Texas have many Oklahomans worried that we haven't seen the worst of the flu season this year, which usually peaks in late January or early February.

Mendy Spohn, Carter County Health Department administrator, said public health nurses have given more than 3,600 flu shots to children and adults since fall. Getting the vaccine, even this late in the season, may be a good idea, she said.

"Usually it's better to call before coming in just to see how busy the clinic is that day," Spohn said. "The vaccines are free to anyone who wants one."

Despite some reports, the only restriction may be the number of vaccines on hand to administer. According to Spohn, the county only has about 20 vaccinations available, and the state Health Department is also running low.

"If there is a great demand for the vaccine then we can request more from the state health department who may have to get them from another state," Spohn said.

In a press release, the Oklahoma State Department of health acknowledged "the potential for a second wave of influenza to hit Oklahoma this season."

A second strain of the influenza virus, previously unseen in Oklahoma this season, has been confirmed in Oklahoma County.

Health officials urge good hygiene practices to decrease the chances of getting the flu. If you have a child with the flu, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends the following to prevent its spread:

• Avoid kissing your infected child on the mouth, although hugging is OK.

• Teach your child to cover his nose and mouth with tissues when coughing or sneezing and to put the tissue in the wastebasket.

• Wash hands both before and after caring for your sick child.

• Wash your child's eating utensils in hot, soapy water or in the dishwasher.

• Don't allow others to share drinking glasses, utensils, or toothbrushes.

• Use disposable paper cups in the bathroom and kitchen.