Owensboro Health Restricting Visitation Due to Flu Outbreak

When COVID-19 hit almost five years ago (that's really hard to believe), I don't remember anyone saying, "This is reminiscent of a bad flu season." I guess because the uniqueness of that coronavirus, we weren't in a comparing mood.

The 2025 Flu Epidemic

I bring this up because when I read stories about the current flu season--which has turned out to be a doozy--my mind goes back to 2020, and I'M the one thinking, "This is reminiscent of COVID." I'm not here to diminish COVID, but I had it twice, and I've had the flu. In terms of how I felt, there's no comparison.

I know folks who have already had it this season and who are dealing with it now, and they're telling me this is NOT a good flu, if there is a such a thing. But I think you know what I mean.

According to the most recent information from the Centers for Disease Control, there are 43 states experiencing high or very high levels of influenza.

Owensboro Health Visitation Restrictions

With that information in mind, it likely comes as no surprise that hospitals around the country now have restrictions on visitation. Due to a high number of admissions due to respiratory infections, Owensboro Health Regional Hospital is one of them and has issued the following:

1. Persons with fever, cough, or sore throat should not visit anyone in the hospital.
2. Children under 18 are at particular risk and are discouraged from visiting.
3. Masks are encouraged.

According to the CDC, "influenza A" is at the heart of the current wave of infections. The agency indicates that it's more aggressive in adults and comes on earlier than "influenza B." However, we're not to let our guard down as "flu B" can come roaring in late in the season.

If you're seeing more and more people with masks these days, it likely has little to do with leftover COVID fears and more to do with the current and concerning flu epidemic.