If flu vaccination rates are any predictor, not nearly enough Kentuckians will get the COVID-19 vaccine to achieve herd immunity.
Herd immunity happens when a virus can't spread because it keeps encountering people who are protected against the infection.
According to CDC data, Kentucky’s flu vaccination rates among counties ranged from 19 to 53 percent last year. The statewide average, historically, is around 40 percent. Dr. Dale Toney, president of the Kentucky Medical Association, says he hope that’s not a harbinger for COVID-19 immunizations.
“Sixty to 70 percent is what’s estimated to achieve herd immunity for the COVID infection," said Toney in an interview with WKU Public Radio.