Lexington reports 3 more flu deaths as virus continues to spread through Kentucky
Three more people have died of influenza in Lexington over the past week as the annual virus continues its wide and early spread through the state and much of the U.S.
In an update Wednesday, the Lexington-Fayette County Health Department reported the new deaths bring the toll in Fayette County to nine. Across Kentucky, the state health department reports 29 flu deaths as of Dec. 3, and one additional death from a flu/COVID-19 co-infection.
As of the latest weekly update, the LFCHD reports 1,575 laboratory-confirmed cases of the flu.
“Please remember that lab-confirmed cases only reflect a small percentage of flu cases actually in Lexington, so the actual case count is likely much higher,” the agency warned.
This season, Lexington has already surpassed its total confirmed flu cases for the past three years combined.
Flu in Kentucky
Kentucky is one of 12 areas of the nation where flu activity is at its highest level, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. As of Dec. 3, the state had confirmed more than 23,000 cases.
Hospitalizations for the flu are also on the rise across the U.S., and those most vulnerable for serious infection include the elderly and young children.
Some health experts are noting the U.S. is experiencing a “tripledemic,” with a convergence of widespread flu, COVID-19 and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) cases.
How to protect yourself from the flu
Among the measures individuals can take to stay healthy are frequent and thorough hand-washing, covering your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing, avoiding touching your face, masking in public places and getting your vaccines.
“While it’s too early to know the flu shot’s effectiveness, we can say that about 90% of the cases reported to us have not been vaccinated. That’s even more reason to get your flu shot this holiday season,” the LFCHD said in its Wednesday update.
The agency is offering flu and COVID-19 vaccines at the public health clinic three days each week. You can make an appointment by calling 859-288-2483.
Vaccines are also available through clinics, primary care providers and pharmacies. You can use vaccines.gov to find a shot near you.
Do you have a question about health in Kentucky for our service journalism team? We’d like to hear from you. Fill out our Know Your Kentucky form or email ask@herald-leader.com.
This story was originally published December 14, 2022 at 12:24 PM.