First confirmed reports of the flu in Kentucky

by Matt Hughes

J-E News Editor

On Monday the Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) reported the first two positive influenza cases. One of those was in Henderson County, our neighbors to the north.

Influenza seasons are unpredictable, and often begin spreading as early as October. With two confirmed cases already, it seems the flu is already knocking on the door.

“Our medical sales rep said that they did not produce as many vaccines this year as normal because they do not expect this year to be that bad,” said Michelle Quisenbery, APRN, NP-C, from Cornerstone Family Health in Madisonville. “But it’s really unpredictable. I think a lot of people may get vaccinated just because last year’s flu season was so bad.”

Seasonal flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by flu viruses. Approximately five to twenty percent of U.S. residents get the flu each year, according to DPH. Flu season typically starts in the fall and peaks in January or February.

Because it takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies to develop and provide protection against the flu, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that people get vaccinated against influenza as soon as the vaccine are available in their community.

According to the Center for Disease Control, most people who get the flu will have mild illness, will not need medical care or antiviral drugs, and will recover in less than two weeks. Some people, however, are more likely to get flu complications that result in being hospitalized and occasionally result in death. Pneumonia, bronchitis, sinus infections and ear infections are examples of flu-related complications. The flu can also make chronic health problems worse. For example, people with asthma may experience asthma attacks while they have the flu, and people with chronic congestive heart failure may have worsening of this condition that is triggered by the flu.

“Getting the flu can be debilitating and sometimes life-threatening, and vaccination is the best tool we have to prevent illness,” said Stephanie Mayfield, M.D., commissioner of DPH. “Kentuckians can also reduce the risk for influenza by following a few simple steps. You should follow the advice your mother gave you to prevent flu and other illnesses that tend to circulate at this time of year – wash your hands frequently, cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze, and stay home when you’re sick.”

The best way to protect against the flu is to receive a flu vaccination. The Kentucky Department for Public Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommend flu vaccine for all individuals more than 6 months of age.

“I’m all about preventative medicine, and you get the shot to prevent the flu,” said Quisenberry. “I tell anybody who is at risk that they should be vaccinated. The consequences of not getting vaccinated outweigh the possible side effects.”

The most at risk for the flu include children and infants, seniors, pregnant women and anyone with a weakened immune system.

Flu symptoms include:

•A 100 degree or higher fever or feeling feverish (not everyone with the flu has a fever)

•A cough and/or sore throat

•A runny or stuffy nose

•Headaches and/or body aches

•Chills

•Fatigue

•Nausea, vomiting, and/or diarrhea (most common in children)