Various illnesses are circulating throughout communities in Kentucky. More than a dozen schools have been shut down due to high absences over the last week. Becky Kissick is the public health director of the Clark County Health Department. She said flu activity is much broader than a year ago.
“You know at this point last year as a state, we were at a sporadic level. Versus this year we are already seeing that widespread level” said Kissick.
Kissick said it’s not surprising following news of a stronger flu season in areas like South America and Australia. And the health director noted students in large congregate settings are at the biggest risk of contracting the flu or other ailments.
Kissick added it appears it could be a long season in Kentucky.
“Unfortunately I think we are going to continue to see some of those larger numbers. Cause that’s really where we come back to it is not too late to be vaccinated. We would really strongly encourage folks to go ahead, and take that step now. Go ahead and get that annual flu vaccine.”
Kissick said the peak of influenza often doesn’t come until January or February.
