Respiratory Viruses

Viruses that cause respiratory diseases, like the ones that cause COVID-19, flu and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), usually spread in the fall and winter. Anyone can get a respiratory virus infection, but some people are at higher risk for serious illness. The Kentucky Department for Public Health (KDPH) recommends the following actions to protect yourself and others:

Stay up to date with vaccines
Stay home, if sick
Wash hands often
Cover coughs and sneezes
Consider wearing a mask if you are high-risk for serious illness

Dark blue box showing icons of KDPH recommendations.

KDPH | Respiratory Disease Season Recommendations

Respiratory Virus Update for Kentucky

Weekly Update- November 30, 2023

COVID-19 activity is MODERATE.
Influenza and RSV activity is INCREASING.
Hospitalizations for RSV and Influenza are INCREASING.

Kentucky Respiratory Disease Data Dashboard

Weekly trends in hospitalizations and emergency department visits for COVID-19, influenza, and RSV in Kentucky

Weekly trends of influenza-like illness activity in Kentucky

Weekly trends of positive laboratory tests for COVID-19 and influenza in Kentucky

Weekly trends of deaths associated with COVID-19 and influenza in Kentucky

CDC | COVID-19 hospital admission level in each county

Learn More About Each of these Viruses

COVID-19

General Information

COVID-19 can be very contagious and spreads quickly. People with COVID-19 typically have mild symptoms, but some people can become severely ill.

Vaccines

Health Care Providers

Flu

General Information

Flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. Some people, such as older adults, young children, and people with certain health conditions are at higher risk for complications.

Vaccines

Health Care Providers

RSV

General Information

RSV is a very contagious respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. RSV can be serious in some people, especially babies and older adults.

CDC | Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection (RSV)

Vaccines

RSV vaccines are recommended for older adults and pregnant people during weeks 32 to 36 of pregnancy. A monoclonal antibody product is available to protect infants from severe RSV.