LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX 18) — The Lexington-Fayette County Health Department has reported the first flu-related death of the season.
Health officials say the person was older than 100 and also had COVID-19 at the same time. The department also announced 95 new flu cases, the most in one week this flu season and the fifth straight week of 40+ new cases.
The total of flu-related cases this season is now up to 364 lab-confirmed cases, according to the department.
The city also saw 221 new COVID-19 cases last week, a total that only includes PCR tests and does not include rapid or home-test kits.
Meanwhile, hospitalizations are spiking across the country.
According to the CDC, in the past four weeks, hospitalizations for the flu have increased by 200%, 60% for RSV and 51% for COVID-19.
Kevin Hall with the Lexington-Fayette County Health Department continues the push for vaccinations.
“Peak flu season in Kentucky is late January, February, so right now is the time if you haven't got the shot, to do so and protect yourself,” said Hall. “It's not gonna be enough time going into the December holidays, but you do have enough time to get protection for the peak season.”
Anyone without insurance or kids with Medicaid can get free flu and COVID-19 shots in their Public Health Clinic Monday-Thursday by same-day appointment by calling (859) 288-2483.
Others with insurance can get the COVID-19 shot at area pharmacies or medical providers. Visit www.vaccines.gov to see more options.
