The recent weekly infection numbers are 38 percent higher than the previous week, with 189,312 positive flu cases reported so far this season in the state. There were 3,666 hospitalizations due to influenza, up 63 percent weekly.
“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,” state Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said.
As influenza activity remains elevated, New Yorkers are advised to take steps to protect themselves and loved ones, including staying home when sick and getting vaccinated, McDonald said.
According to the department, the flu vaccine is widely available for individuals aged 6 months and older.
McDonald emphasized that flu infections among high-risk individuals were treatable with antiviral medications, provided the medicines are taken within 48 hours of symptoms.
Individuals with the highest risk of developing serious health complications from flu infections include pregnant women, those aged 65 and above, young children, and people prone to certain chronic medical conditions, according to the department.
“To treat the flu, there are antiviral medications that can be prescribed by health care providers, such as Tamiflu, which can reduce the length and severity of the illness but must be administered close to the onset of symptoms,” the department said.
“The seasonal influenza vaccine remains the best protection against serious illness and death from the flu. It can help reduce absences from work, school and extracurricular activities, and provides protection for the most vulnerable members of families and communities.”
“Different influenza vaccines are approved for use in people in different age groups. In addition, some vaccines are not recommended for certain groups of people,” the agency said.
“Factors that can determine a person’s suitability for vaccination, or vaccination with a particular vaccine, include a person’s age, health (current and past) and any allergies to influenza vaccine or its components.”
Vaccine Safety, Precautions Against Flu
Authorities are taking action to further strengthen the safety of the flu vaccine. In July, Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. signed a recommendation to remove a mercury-based preservative from flu vaccines. The recommendation was made by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices.“Injecting any amount of mercury into children when safe, mercury-free alternatives exist defies common sense and public health responsibility. Today, we put safety first,” Kennedy said at the time.
Meanwhile, the New York State Department recommended that citizens take preventive actions to help restrict the spread of influenza and other respiratory viruses.
This includes avoiding touching the nose, mouth, or eyes with unwashed hands, avoiding close contact with sick people, and covering a cough or sneeze with a tissue and throwing the tissue in the trash.
“Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer,” it said.
“Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
“Earlier this month, the Department declared that influenza is prevalent in New York State. The declaration requires health care facilities and agencies ensure that their personnel who have not received this year’s flu vaccine wear masks in areas where patients and residents may be present.”
For the week ending Dec. 13, 9,944 patients were admitted to hospitals due to flu, according to the National Healthcare Safety Network hospital respiratory data, the report said. The weekly hospitalization rate was 14.3 per 100,000 Americans.
