The Department for Public Health reports flu activity in Kentucky is at “widespread” for the 10th consecutive week.
According to a news release, widespread is the highest level of flu activity, indicating increased flu-like activity or flu outbreaks in at least half of the state’s regions.
DPH Commissioner Dr. Jeff Howard says, “With the traditional flu season running from October through May, it is not too late for Kentuckians to protect themselves and their families from the flu by getting a flu shot. We are urging anyone who hasn’t received a flu vaccine, particularly children 6 months and older and those people at high risk for complications related to the flu, to check with doctors’ offices, local health departments, pharmacies or other providers about getting the vaccine.”
Kentucky is currently reporting 44 flu-related deaths for the 2018-19 flu season. For the 2017-18 flu season, Kentucky reported a total of 333 flu-related deaths.
It takes about two weeks after the getting the shot for a person to develop protection from the flu. Flu can be very contagious. Those who develop flu symptoms should seek medical advice about the need for a medical evaluation or treatment.