The New York State Department of Health is encouraging residents to stay safe and healthy during the holiday season by getting vaccinated against influenza, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) ahead of gatherings and travel.
State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald warned that this year’s flu season is expected to be more severe than last year, citing circulating strains of the virus and rising case numbers across the state.
“We strongly encourage New Yorkers to take action for their health and get vaccinated ahead of the holidays,” McDonald said. “Vaccines ensure we have the best protection for ourselves and our loved ones.”
Flu Activity Rising Statewide
Last week, the Department of Health declared influenza prevalent across New York. Data through November 29 shows more than 32,700 flu cases reported statewide since the start of the season in early October. Lab-confirmed cases increased by 80 percent in one week, while flu-related hospitalizations rose 93 percent.
Despite the increase in cases, flu vaccination rates are down. As of mid-November, 3.4 million flu vaccines had been administered statewide, a 5.3 percent decrease from the same time last year. Health officials note that older adults, young children, pregnant people, and those with chronic medical conditions face the highest risk of serious complications.
During the 2024–2025 flu season, New York recorded 27 pediatric flu-related deaths, the highest number ever reported in a single season. The Department recommends that everyone six months and older receive a seasonal flu vaccine.
COVID Cases Expected to Rise
COVID-19 continues to cause significant illness statewide, with nearly 2,000 cases and more than 330 hospitalizations reported in the week ending November 29. Health officials expect another increase in cases this winter based on past trends.
Vaccination rates for COVID remain lower than last year. About 1.3 million updated COVID vaccine doses have been administered since late August, down 30 percent from the same period in 2024. Among adults 65 and older, vaccinations are down nearly 25 percent.
Governor Kathy Hochul has extended an executive order allowing pharmacists to continue administering COVID vaccines, expanding access statewide. Children as young as three can receive vaccines at most pharmacies, while younger children can be vaccinated by their health care providers.
RSV Cases Continue to Climb
RSV cases are also increasing as the virus approaches its typical peak in December and January. For the week ending November 29, more than 2,200 cases and 256 hospitalizations were reported statewide, with most cases occurring in children ages four and under.
Vaccines are available for adults 75 and older, adults ages 60 to 74 following consultation with a health care provider, and for pregnant people to help protect newborns. In addition, long-acting antibody treatments are available for infants and young children at higher risk.
Vaccination Options
Health officials note it is safe and convenient to receive flu, COVID, and RSV vaccines during the same appointment. Vaccines are widely available through pharmacies and health care providers across New York.
The Department of Health recently launched a new Respiratory Surveillance Report to provide a comprehensive view of flu, COVID, and RSV trends statewide. More information on vaccines, illness tracking, and prevention is available through the Department of Health’s website.
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