Health department confirms Lexington’s second flu death

A second person in Lexington has died from the flu this season, and like the first victim earlier in January, the individual was older than 50 with underlying health issues, said Kevin Hall, the Lexington-Fayette County Health Department’s Communication Officer.

Hall said Wednesday there had been 222 lab-confirmed flu cases in Lexington this season. He said officials had been unable to verify if the most recent deceased person had received the flu vaccine this year. The first victim had not had the shot, officials said earlier this month.

Health department officials said a seasonal flu shot is the best way to fight the flu each winter and the shot is especially important for senior adults, young children and anyone with other medical risks.

Flu shots are available in the department’s Public Health Clinic (650 Newtown Pike) without an appointment: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday, Tuesday and Friday, and 9 a.m to 6 p.m. Wednesday. The cost varies based on insurance. For information, call (859) 288-2483.