Lexington reporting first flu-related death of the season

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WTVQ) – Health officials say Lexington has its first flu-related death of the season.

The Lexington-Fayette County Health Department announced Thursday that a person older than 50 with underlying health issues died from complications of the flu.

This week health officials announced there were 141 confirmed flu cases – almost 100 more than there were this time last year.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, at least six people have died in connection to the flu in the state.

“People don’t pay attention to the flu until it’s here and sadly, it’s here,” said Kevin Hall, Lexington-Fayette Health Department spokesperson.

If there’s more cases of the flu, pharmacies will likely see more prescriptions.

Pharmacist, Katherine Chase says she sees the most flu prescriptions in February.

She says she has enough flu medication in her pharmacy, but has noticed drug companies where she buys the medications are starting to run low.

“In all honestly, we usually do run out every year. The liquid for kids is the hardest to get and it seems to be that way every year,” said Katherine Chase, Corner Pharmacy Owner.

Health officials say peak flu season begins in late January/early February in Kentucky, so it’s not too late to get a flu shot. A seasonal flu shot is the best way to fight the flu each winter, and the shot is especially important for senior adults, young children and anyone with other medical risks.

Flu shots are available in our the Lexington-Fayette County Public Health Clinic at 650 Newtown Pike without an appointment: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday, Tuesday and Friday, and 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Wednesday.