During their weekly update on Kool Gold’s London News Now, the Laurel County Health Department reported respiratory illnesses continue to rise. Public Services Supervisor, Tyler Caldwell, said from January 1st to January 5th there were 201 new cases and 7 new hospitalizations. Caldwell says flu cases also continue to rise as we are in the peak of flu season. Caldwell said other than staying up to date on vaccinations, it’s important to practice preventive measures like washing your hands, covering your coughs and sneezes and staying home when you’re sick. For more information visit https://www.laurelcohealthdept.org/ or their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/laurelcohealth