State health officials are urging residents in Kentucky to get the flu vaccine now if they haven't already had it.
Dr. Kraig Humbaugh, senior deputy commissioner of the Kentucky Department for Public Health, said in a statement that there have been reports of severe flu symptoms in young and middle-aged adults even though the virus hasn't yet peaked this season. Humbaugh said now is a good time to get the vaccine since it takes about two weeks for immunity to develop.
Health officials report the flu activity level in Kentucky is "regional," which means outbreaks have been reported in less than half the state.
Flu season usually begins in October and can last through May.