Two school systems called school off today and tomorrow in the mountains and obviously it is not because of the weather.

An outbreak of flu cases in Breathitt and Wolfe Counties has school officials trying to prevent the sickness from spreading.

School hallways, parking lots, and playgrounds were empty for both the Wolfe and Breathitt County school systems.

"We called our local doctor offices and consulted with them starting on Monday. They were seeing an increase on Monday of flu and strep cases and Tuesday they saw an even bigger case load," said Kenny Bell, the Wolfe County Schools Superintendent.

Since winter has not really hit the mountains yet, extra days are available to call off school and get these students well.

"We're hoping these two days closing will allow our faculty, staff, and students to get well and come back to school on Monday with our buildings sanitized and everything in order," said Burley Hudson, the director of federal programs and professional development for the Breathitt County School System.

Doctors in the area say closing school is the surest way of preventing the illness from spreading.

"Give the flu a chance to run it's course. Those that have been exposed, get medicated, and get over it typically 24 hours after they are on a medication. Then they're not contagious," said Mike Myers, a nurse practitioner in Campton.

Doctors say people who got a flu shot at the beginning of flu season might want to think about getting another, especially with an increase of flu cases in the area.

Doctors say it is never too late to get a flu shot.

Between both school systems 11 schools were closed today and will be tomorrow.

Breathitt and Wolfe County schools plan to be on regular schedule on Monday.