According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), approximately 15.4 to 17.8 million people have experienced the flu so far this season, compared to 50 million cases, 1 million hospitalizations and 80,000 deaths during the 2017-2018 season.

2018–2019 Flu Season Down From Previous Year

Flu activity is still “widespread” in 47 states, including Kentucky and Indiana, so you’re not in the clear just yet.

“There are two major strains of flu – type A and type B,” said David B. Saxon, MD, of Baptist Health Urgent Care in Paducah. “If you get type A or B in one year, you can still get the other one in the same year, but just because flu season is down from the previous year, getting vaccinated can still be helpful, even if someone has already gotten one of the flu types. In years past, we have seen cases of the flu into late April.”

Dr. Saxon also offers these tips to prevent the flu:

• Avoid close contact with other people who have been sick or had the flu.
• Always cover your nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing.
• If you’re having flu-like symptoms and/or a fever, stay home from school or work until your fever subsides.
• Regularly wash your hands with soap and water, or with an alcohol-based sanitizer.
• Do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth without your hands being free of germs.

The CDC reports that getting vaccinated for the flu is 47 percent effective in reducing a person’s risk.

Take Action

If you are experiencing flu symptoms or would like to get vaccinated, visit one of Baptist Health’s convenient Urgent Care locations throughout Kentucky and southern Indiana.

An Urgent Care visit is now easier than ever with Online Check-In. Go to BaptistHealthClinics.com, click on your desired location, and save your spot in line.