Health officials warn of severe flu season as cases rise in Jefferson County

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If you've been putting off getting your flu shot, now might be the time to roll up your sleeve.

A mutated strain of Influenza A H3N2 is making its way across the United States and other countries, and health experts are warning this could shape up to be a particularly rough flu season. The strain first emerged over the summer in the Southern Hemisphere and has now triggered outbreaks in multiple countries across the Northern Hemisphere.

Here in Jefferson County, we're seeing the impact firsthand. According to the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness, flu cases are on the rise locally based on their flu data dashboard.

If you're feeling under the weather, it's worth getting tested. The good news? The health department says free rapid flu tests are available at all Louisville Metro Parks Community Centers while supplies last. You can also grab them at local pharmacies and grocery stores.

While many viral illnesses simply need to run their course, the flu is different- there are antiviral medications that can help. The catch is timing: they work best when you start them within the first two days of symptoms appearing. This is especially crucial if you're someone at higher risk for flu complications.

And yes, the flu vaccine still matters, even with this mutated strain circulating. Getting vaccinated can reduce how sick you get, help prevent hospitalizations, and protect you against multiple strains of the virus.

Health officials say this is an important year to get your flu shot if you haven't already. Keep in mind that once you're vaccinated, your immune system needs about 10 to 14 days to develop the antibodies that will protect you against infection- so the sooner you get it, the better.

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