Kentucky schools see closures as flu and COIVD cases rise

Health officials urge precautions amid increasing illnesses

LEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC 36 NEWS NOW) — Health officials and school leaders are responding to a spike in flu and COVID-19 cases across multiple Kentucky counties.

“It is spreading and it is spreading rapidly and we need people out there to slow this down,” said Kevin Hall, spokesperson for the Lexington-Fayette County Health Department.

According to the Lexington-Fayette County Health Department, 597 lab-confirmed flu cases were recorded in the week ending Feb. 1—more than double the 286 cases from the previous week. Additionally, over 70 COVID-19 cases were confirmed in the same period.

“It’s really worth remembering these are only lab-confirmed cases, they don’t include rapid tests. Think of the people who don’t even go to seek medical help when they have the flu. So this is just the tip of the iceberg of what’s out there,” Hall said.

As a result of the surge, school districts including Casey, Nicholas, and Marion counties have canceled classes or shifted to NTI days due to high student absences.

“Children aren’t typically great handwashers. So you’ve got a lot of children in a confined place where the air isn’t circulating as well because they’re not going outside for recess or any sort of activities outside because of the cold weather, this is why it spreads this time of year,” Hall explained.

While larger districts like Fayette County Public Schools have not closed, FCPS issued a statement saying:

“Closing schools is one of the most critical decisions a superintendent must make, and we take that responsibility seriously. We understand concerns about the spread of illness and are closely monitoring student attendance, teacher and staff absences, substitute availability, and historical attendance trends to make informed, data-driven decisions.

At this time, current data does not indicate the need for school closures. The overwhelming majority of our students are in attendance, healthy, safe, and actively engaged in learning. Our custodial staff continues to sanitize high-touch surfaces, and our students and staff are taking necessary precautions to help prevent the spread of illness, including deep cleanings during the evening hours and weekends. 

We remain in close communication with health professionals and encourage families to reinforce healthy habits at home, including handwashing and keeping students home when they are ill. FCPS will continue to monitor conditions daily and make decisions with the well-being of our students and staff in mind.”

– Dia Davidson-Smith, FCPS Spokesperson

Health experts continue to stress prevention methods, especially for young students.

“The first and easiest way to fight the flu is with the flu shot. It’s not too late, we are in the peak flu season here in Kentucky so you can still get that flu shot. If you don’t want to get the shot, if you’ve already received the shot, make sure you’re washing your hands frequently, make sure you’re staying home when you’re sick,” Hall said.

Flu season typically begins to slow as spring approaches, according to Hall.