Kentucky has reported its first pediatric flu death this year, as doctors and health leaders in Louisville Metro attribute the spike in positive flu cases to low vaccination rates among children.
According to Jefferson County’s health department, less than 30% of kids are vaccinated against the flu. Doctors say this is unusually high for a flu season, with 8-10% typically getting the flu each year. However, this flu season has seen 32 outbreaks in residential congregate settings, including schools and childcare centers.
The Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness (LMDPHW) reports over 1,700 cases of flu in February alone, with numbers expected to rise. The department attributes low vaccination rates as a major factor behind the outbreak.
To combat this, the LMDPHW has launched a new mobile vaccine clinic program, targeting areas where transportation issues and misinformation are prevalent. They also offer materials translated into Spanish and other languages to reach families who may be hesitant due to language barriers.
“We can immunize people where they live, work, or gather,” Dr. Kris Bryant said. “We’ll answer questions and educate in the community.” Even though doctors encourage vaccination as early as October, it’s not too late to get a flu shot if you haven’t done so yet.
Source: https://www.wave3.com/2025/02/07/louisville-metro-doctors-encourage-vaccination-state-reports-first-pediatric-flu-death