LOUISVILLE, Ky. — A sharp increase in flu cases has been reported across Louisville, with health experts attributing the surge to a significant drop in vaccination rates this season.
Dazia Mason, an urgent care nurse practitioner with UofL Health, explained that typically, flu cases peak in January, but this year, the illness has continued to spread into February. She emphasized that while it’s not too late to get a flu vaccine, people should take precautions as the vaccine can take up to two weeks to fully protect against the virus.
“Despite popular belief, you cannot get the flu from the flu vaccine,” Mason said, addressing common misconceptions among patients.
Recent data from the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness revealed a concerning increase in flu cases. As of Friday, flu cases in the area rose by 3,000, bringing the total from over 6,000 to nearly 9,000 in just one week. Jefferson County has reported at least six flu-related deaths and 32 outbreaks in various congregate settings, such as schools and daycares.
In response to the growing spread of illness, several schools in Jefferson, Oldham, Hardin, Spencer, and Bullitt counties have either closed temporarily or shifted to online learning to curb the spread.
Mason stressed the importance of regular handwashing as one of the most effective ways to avoid contracting the flu. For those who are already ill, she advised staying home to allow the body time to recover.
Flu shots are still available at urgent care centers around the city, and even individuals who have already contracted the flu this season can still benefit from getting vaccinated.
The city’s health department has been tracking flu cases by zip code, providing data on the spread of illness throughout the area. For more information, including the interactive flu map, residents can visit the health department’s website.
With flu cases continuing to rise, public health experts are urging residents to take the necessary steps to protect themselves and others from further spread.
