A surge in respiratory illnesses, including flu cases, has hit Kentucky schools, prompting health officials to urge vaccination and caution.
The CDC reports that flu cases have reached their highest levels since 2009, with Kentucky’s cases mirroring the trend. Dr. Steven Stack, Kentucky Commissioner of Public Health, advises people to be mindful of virus spread and highlights the importance of immunization for students six months old and older.
The first child death from flu in Kentucky has been reported, with officials stressing that vaccination is key to prevention. Schools in Casey County took two days off to clean after a wave of flu A, B, strep throat, and COVID-19 cases forced many students at home. Dr. Stack says immunization can reduce illness severity but not prevent infection.
It’s still not too late to get vaccinated and protect loved ones this season, according to Dr. Stack. With vaccination, people can lower their risk of hospitalization or loss of life related to respiratory illnesses.
Source: https://www.wkyt.com/2025/02/08/kentucky-schools-impacted-by-surge-respiratory-illness