Compare lab-confirmed cases of the flu this week and those seen at the same time in 2025, and the number is more than 20 times higher according to state officials.
Dr. Morgan Blanton, chief medical officer with Baptist Health Richmond, told WKYT the sooner-than-expected increase doesn't tell the story for this year's flu season as a whole.
"Earlier flu doesn't necessarily mean that we'll have a worse flu season, but it's certainly important enough that we should be talking about how to prevent it and how to treat it and recognize the signs," she said.
Physicians advise a flu shot is the best way to limit cases and to decrease symptoms and serious complications when cases do occur. Those most at risk for serious illness are young children, older adults, and those with complicating health factors.
Health authorities recommend the vaccine for everyone ages six months and older.