Kentucky health officials are reporting two children are among the 36 flu related deaths this influenza season. The average age for the remainder of Kentuckians who died from flu related complications is 75.
State Epidemiologist Jonathan Ballard says flu shots remain a priority recommendation. He says it’s been particularly affective in protecting against influenza type B. “Even if the flu vaccine is not as effective for influenza A that we’re seeing at the current time, it may very well help anyone get influenza B at the end of the flu season,” said Ballard.
Ballard says officials with the Centers for Disease Control are reporting anti-viral medications are helping relieve flu symptoms, even beyond the first couple of days with the onset of the ailment. Ballard says the traditional flu season runs through May.