UPDATE: New York’s health officials are sounding the alarm as flu cases surge, confirming that even individuals who have had the flu this season remain at risk of reinfection. Dr. James McDonald, commissioner of the New York State Department of Health, emphasized that flu is not a single disease, stating, “You can get flu more than once a season.”
This warning comes as New York faces an alarming increase in flu cases, with 269,433 confirmed cases and 17,833 hospitalizations reported this season. Vulnerable populations, particularly young children and the elderly, are bearing the brunt of this outbreak.
Recent data highlights that adults aged 75 and older are leading hospitalizations with over 400 cases, while children aged 0-4 account for more than 4,000 cases statewide. The urgency of the situation is clear as healthcare professionals brace for potential complications.
“It looks like a second strain is coming in,” said Dr. Harry Miller, lead physician at Four Seasons Pediatrics Boston Children’s Health Physicians. “Whether that will take as strong a hold as Flu A we’ve been seeing remains to be seen.”
Dr. Miller also raised concerns about declining vaccination rates, warning that lower immunization leads to a larger pool of susceptible individuals. “As less people vaccinate, that’s a bigger pool,” he said, underscoring the importance of vaccination in curbing the spread of the virus.
This urgent update serves as a crucial reminder for New Yorkers to remain vigilant. Health experts urge residents, especially those in vulnerable groups, to take preventive measures and consider vaccination to protect themselves and their communities.
As flu season continues, authorities recommend regular handwashing, wearing masks in crowded places, and staying home when ill. The situation is developing, and officials will continue to monitor the spread closely.
Stay tuned for more updates on this critical health issue as authorities work to combat the ongoing flu outbreak across New York.
