The New York State Department of Health says the state is experiencing the highest number of influenza-related hospitalizations ever recorded in a single week.
Health officials report 4,546 flu hospitalizations statewide, nearly 1,000 more than the previous week, marking a sharp increase as the flu season intensifies.
“We are having a more severe flu season than prior years,” State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said. “Almost 1,000 more people were admitted to a hospital during this most recent seven-day period compared to the prior week. There is still time to get a flu shot, and flu can be treated with antiviral medication if started within 48 hours of symptom onset and your doctor deems it appropriate.”
Last week, the Department also announced that New York recorded the highest number of flu cases ever reported in a single week. In December, the state formally declared influenza to be prevalent, a designation that requires health care facilities to ensure unvaccinated staff wear masks in patient-care areas.
Officials say that while increased testing has contributed to higher reported case numbers in recent years, this season is impacting more people than in other recent flu seasons. Flu activity typically peaks in January.
Common flu symptoms include fever or chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headache, fatigue, and, in some cases, vomiting or diarrhea, particularly among children.
Health officials continue to urge New Yorkers to get vaccinated, noting that the flu vaccine remains the best protection against serious illness and death. The vaccine is widely available across the state at pharmacies, health clinics, and doctors’ offices. It is recommended for everyone six months and older, with young children, pregnant women, older adults, and people with chronic medical conditions at higher risk for complications.
Antiviral medications are also available by prescription and can reduce the length and severity of the illness if started soon after symptoms begin.
In addition to vaccination, the Department of Health recommends frequent handwashing, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, staying home when ill, covering coughs and sneezes, and regularly cleaning high-touch surfaces to help prevent the spread of influenza and other respiratory viruses.
More information, including weekly surveillance data, is available through the state’s flu tracking resources on the Department of Health website.
Have all the Finger Lakes news from Finger Lakes News Radio delivered to your email every morning for FREE! Sign up by clicking here
