Governor Kathy Hochul discusses upper respiratory viruses on the rise

The New York State Department of Health is warning that COVID-19, Seasonal Flu and Respiratory Syncytial Virus cases are rising in the state.

Health officials say as respiratory virus infections spread this fall and are expected to continue through the winter, they’re urging people to take steps to help stop the spread.

Earlier this fall, the State Department of Health (DOH) issued a Health Advisory Notice regarding respiratory illnesses to hospitals, local health departments, and other medical facilities. While not specific to any one virus, the notice highlighted increased hospitalizations from these types of illnesses and provides federal resources.

Governor Kathy Hochul said, “Our best shot at protecting ourselves and fellow New Yorkers from respiratory illnesses continues to be getting vaccinated, staying up to date on boosters, and practicing good hygiene.”

The flu vaccine is available to anyone 6 months or older, and is strongly recommended for people with chronic diseases, young children, and individuals who are pregnant – all of whom have a higher risk of developing serious complications from influenza.

Health officials say the best defense against respiratory viruses is to receive the seasonal flu and COVID vaccines, stay up to date on COVID-19 boosters, practice social distancing, wear masks in crowded settings, and use proper hygiene, including frequent hand washing.

The Department of Health is monitoring regional hospital capacity and engaging hospital and health care systems that may be seeing larger than normal patient volumes in their emergency departments and inpatient units. If you are sick and exhibiting symptoms of a respiratory virus, consult your primary care provider.

Kathy Hochul

Governor Kathy Hochul is encouraging New Yorkers to get both a flu and COVID-19 vaccine this season. The COVID-19 vaccine and-or a booster dose can be received at the same time as the seasonal flu shot. Flu season occurs primarily from October through May, often peaking between December and February.

The State Health Department recommends that everyone six months of age or older receive an influenza vaccination. The vaccine is especially important for people at high risk for complications from influenza, including children under age 2, pregnant women and adults over age 65.

People with preexisting conditions such as asthma and heart disease are also at greater risk, as are individuals with weakened immune systems due to disease or medications such as chemotherapy or chronic steroid use. Since influenza virus can spread easily by coughing or sneezing, it is also important that family members and people in regular contact with high-risk individuals get an influenza vaccine.
Influenza activity data will be available on the New York State Flu Tracker.

Last flu season, flu cases in New York State hit a record low because of people wearing masks, social distancing and practicing frequent handwashing, which are the same public health measures used to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 since the start of the pandemic.