‘More common than people realize.’ Fayette County reports first flu death this season
A Fayette County resident has died from the flu, marking the first flu-related death in Lexington this season, according to the Lexington-Fayette County Health Department.
The victim is an adult in their 60s with underlying conditions, according to Kevin Hall, a spokesperson for the health department.
Hall said it’s typical to have five to 10 flu-related deaths in Fayette County per season. Last season there were zero deaths and the season before there were nine.
Hall said the lack of social events and gatherings last season due to the pandemic was the reason for the low number of flu-related deaths.
“Flu deaths are more common than people realize, or flu-related deaths,” Hall said. “They particularly do happen to people with underlying conditions or senior adults.”
There have been 172 confirmed cases of the flu in Fayette County since December. The number of cases has increased 15 in the last week, according to the health department.
The health department said the amount of flu cases is likely higher than the reported total, as results from rapid tests, which are commonly used by many providers, are not required to be reported to the health department. The 172 cases are only lab-confirmed cases.
“Lab-confirmed cases only reflect a small percentage of flu cases actually in Lexington,” the health department said in a news release.
The health department said getting a flu shot for anyone older than six months is the best way to protect someone from the flu. The health department offers same-day appointment every Monday, Wednesday or Thursday at their Public Health Clinic on Newtown Pike.
Those interested can call 859-288-2483 to schedule an appointment.
This story was originally published April 6, 2022 at 10:11 AM.
