WKYT) – Flu season is here, and in the Commonwealth, health experts say they’re seeing an increase in cases.
The Cabinet for Health and Family Services says flu cases in Kentucky are higher than they were at this time last year, mirroring a nationwide increase.
Flu Arriving Earlier Than Usual
Whitney Abbott, a physician assistant in the emergency department at Baptist Health Hamburg, said they have already seen people with flu-like symptoms in the emergency room this year.
“We are starting to see symptoms a little bit earlier this year which is unusual,” Abbott said. “We’re seeing a lot of the same symptoms we’ve seen over the years. We’re just seeing it maybe a little earlier.”
Symptoms to Watch For
The seasonal flu is a contagious respiratory illness that people begin to get this time of year.
Abbott said patients have been coming in with classic flu symptoms.
“From our patients we’ve been seeing fever, chills, kind of sore throat, non-productive coughs, and just like generalized fatigue. Often with flu patients they are dehydrated,” Abbott said.
How to Protect Yourself
Health professionals said there is one sure-fire way to help prevent getting the flu.
“If you don’t want to get the flu, get the flu shot,” said Dr. Jeff Foxx, a retired family physician.
Flu season typically runs from October through May, with a peak during the winter. Foxx said September and October are the best time to get vaccinated.
“It takes about two weeks to develop an antibody. If you don’t get it now, you can get it anytime, get your courage up, you can get it a month from now, but I would get it. Get your flu shot,” Foxx said.
Children six months and older can get the flu shot. Foxx saidit’s particularly important for people 65 and older.
Places throughout Kentucky are offering flu shots. If you have flu-like symptoms, contact a medical provider, seek help at an urgent care or go to the emergency room.