ALBANY, December 29, 2023 — New York is experiencing the highest number of recorded flu cases in a single week since tracking began in 2004, with 71,123 positive cases reported for the seven days ending December 20. The surge is raising concerns about strain on healthcare resources as the state heads into the peak of flu season.
Flu Cases Shatter Records in New York State
A record-breaking wave of influenza is sweeping across New York, prompting health officials to urge vaccination and preventative measures.
- New York State reported 71,123 flu cases in the week ending December 20, a new weekly record.
- Hospitalizations due to influenza have increased by 63 percent in the same period.
- Flu vaccination rates are significantly lower this year, with only 23.9% of residents vaccinated as of December 24.
- Health officials emphasize that it’s not too late to get vaccinated and practice preventative measures.
“We are seeing the highest number of flu cases ever recorded in a single week in New York State,” New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald announced Friday. “We are closely reviewing hospital bed capacity data to better understand hospitalization trends and to guide any necessary response related to impacts from respiratory viral infections.”
What’s driving this surge in flu cases? Lower vaccination rates are a major factor. As of December 24, just 23.9% of New York state residents had received the influenza vaccine, according to state data. In Onondaga County, the rate is slightly higher at 29.9%. This is a significant drop from the more than 50% of Americans who typically get the seasonal flu shot, according to federal data.
Dr. Kathryn Anderson, the Onondaga County health commissioner, recently noted that typically over 40% of county residents receive their flu shots by early December, but rates are down this year amid growing vaccine skepticism.
Nationally and locally, vaccination rates have declined since the COVID-19 pandemic, fueled by increased skepticism towards vaccines. Statewide, nearly 4 million fewer residents have received their flu shots compared to recent years.
The current flu season has already seen 189,312 positive cases reported in New York to date. Hospitalizations are also on the rise, climbing 63 percent from 2,251 to 3,666 across the state.
Health officials warn that infections could continue to grow as families gathered for the holidays, particularly during the colder winter months. Flu season typically peaks in January, according to the state health department.
Dr. McDonald encouraged New Yorkers to protect themselves and others by getting vaccinated, staying home when sick, and “practicing everyday preventive measures.” He also emphasized that the flu is treatable with antiviral medicine, if taken within 48 hours of symptom onset, for those at high risk.
Here are some additional preventative measures:
- Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water aren’t available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Stay home when sick.
- Cover coughs or sneezes with a tissue, then throw the tissue away.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
“It is not too late to get vaccinated against influenza, and the flu vaccine is widely available to those 6 months and older,” the health department said Friday. “Young children, pregnant women, people with certain chronic medical conditions, and those ages 65 and older are most at risk of developing serious complications from the flu.”
The seasonal influenza vaccine remains the most effective way to protect against severe illness and death from the flu. Flu shots are available to New Yorkers ages 2 and older at healthcare providers’ offices and participating pharmacies without a prescription; children 6 months and older can receive the vaccine at a healthcare provider’s office.
For more information, visit health.ny.gov.
