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
KDPH | Respiratory Disease Season Recommendations
KDPH | 2025 Fall Immunization Guidance for Providers
Respiratory Virus Update for Kentucky
Updated: 01/15/26
Seasonal influenza activity is elevated.
COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) activities have increased in recent weeks.
Emergency department and inpatient encounters for acute respiratory illnesses remain elevated.
Multiple outbreaks and school closures due to respiratory illnesses have been reported.
Kentucky Respiratory Disease Data Dashboard
Kentucky COVID-19 and Influenza Seasonal Immunizations Dashboard
Kentucky Wastewater Surveillance Dashboard
Weekly trends in respiratory illness hospitalizations and emergency department encounters 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, influenza, and RSV in Kentucky
Respiratory Virus Activity Levels | Respiratory Illnesses | CDC