Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) officials are reporting “widespread” flu activity to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for the ninth consecutive week. Widespread activity is the highest level of flu activity, which indicates increased flu-like activity or flu outbreaks in at least half of the regions in the state. The activity levels for states are tracked weekly as part of the CDC’s national flu surveillance system.
The traditional flu season lasts from October through May. Increased flu activity began later this season than usual in Kentucky. Due to the late peak in the season, both in Kentucky and nationally, increased flu activity is anticipated to continue well into May.
“Even though flu season is running later than usual, Kentuckians can still protect themselves and their families by getting a flu shot," said Dr. Kraig Humbaugh, senior deputy commissioner of DPH. “The Kentucky Department for Public Health is 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.”
The vaccination rate in Kentucky each flu season is about 50 percent. Therefore, there are many susceptible Kentuckians in the population. Flu can cycle within a community several times. Young children and those who are elderly or have chronic disease are especially vulnerable to more severe consequences. While this year’s vaccine was a good match to the viruses circulating nationally, its effectiveness can depend on the recipient’s age and their immune system, among other factors.
It takes about 2 weeks following the administration of the vaccine for the recipient to develop protection from the flu. There are ample supplies available throughout the state. Vaccinations are available at Kentucky’s local health departments, pharmacies and medical providers. Many health plans cover the cost of the vaccine with no copay. Kentuckians are advised to call before arriving for a vaccination.
Flu can be very contagious. Infection with the flu virus can cause fever, headache, cough, sore throat, runny nose, sneezing and body aches. Persons who develop flu symptoms should seek medical advice about the need for a medical evaluation or treatment with an antiviral drug, which could shorten the course of the illness or reduce its severity.
