Flu remains widespread in Kentucky; vaccinations still advisable

This year's round of influenza hit Kentucky later than usual, and that probably means this year's flu season could run past May, its usual end, the state Department of Public Health said in an alert April 6.

The flu is “widespread” in Kentucky for the ninth straight week, the health department said. "That means there’s increased flu-like activity or flu outbreaks in at least half of the regions of the state," Darla Carter reports for The Courier-Journal.

The department still recommends a flu vaccination, if you haven't had one for the current season, “particularly children 6 months and older and those people at high risk for complications related to the flu, to check with doctors’ offices, local health departments, pharmacies or other providers about getting the vaccine,” said Dr. Kraig Humbaugh, senior deputy commissioner.

The agency recommends other precautions:

• Avoid close contact with sick people.
• If you have the flu, limit your contact with other people.
• Stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone. Your fever should be gone for 24 hours without the use of a fever-reducing drug.
• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, then put the tissue in the trash.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water. If they are not available, use an alcohol-based rub.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that might be contaminated with flu and other germs.