State health leaders report increases in flu, RSV, and pertussis cases as families prepare for holiday gatherings.
LEXINGTON, Ky. (WKYT) — The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services is warning residents that respiratory illnesses are increasing as the holiday season begins.
Doctors at Commonwealth Pediatrics reported a busy Monday, which Dr. Elizabeth Hawse said is typical for this time of year. However, she noted that providers are seeing noticeable increases in certain respiratory illnesses.
“This morning I’ve seen somebody that probably has RSV, I’ve seen a few flus. It’s definitely busy today. Today is busier than it was last week even, and a lot of it is just respiratory virus,” Hawse said.
Multiple illnesses spreading statewide
The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services reports rising flu and RSV cases across the state. The cabinet also said COVID-19 cases remain low but are increasing.
At the Lexington-Fayette County Health Department, infectious disease team lead Hollie Sands said officials are also seeing a significant number of pertussis cases.
“The problem with respiratory illnesses is that you’re infectious and you don’t even know it, so you’re spreading it around before your symptoms even begin, so we want people to be aware of that,” Sands said.
Sands said vaccination is the most effective way to protect against these illnesses, though timing can be a challenge during the holidays.
“Unfortunately, vaccines take about two weeks for you to develop that immunity, so it’s never too late to get a vaccine, but you might not fully be protected by the time we get to those holidays, so make sure you wash your hands and cover your cough,” Sands said.
Health officials also advise people who have been exposed to respiratory illnesses to reconsider attending holiday gatherings.
“Let’s pass bread and not disease at our holiday table because if you’re sick, I know it’s a hard thing to say and ask, but we don’t want you to be there with your family and making them sick, especially if you have immunocompromised individuals,” Sands said.
For those hosting holiday events, Sands recommends spacing guests out and opening windows to improve ventilation and reduce the spread of illness.
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