New York declares Flu prevalent statewide with Holiday season in full swing

Flu has been declared prevalent across New York by the State Health Commissioner, Dr. James McDonald.

"We expect a more severe flu season due to circulating strains of the virus compared to last year,” Commissioner McDonald said.

The Department's most recent data, through November 29, shows a total of 32,769 flu cases across 62 counties in New York have been reported this season to date.

For context, the state begins keeping seasonal track of the flu in early October. So far in the first-half of December, health experts say lab-confirmed flu cases are up 80 percent.

Hospitalizations from people suffering flu related complications are increasing, too.

Meanwhile, COVID continues spreading statewide as well, with cases and hospitalizations on the rise. RSV cases are continuing to rise as well.

As the peak season for respiratory illness nears, New York health officials encourage folks to consider keeping up to date on their vaccines, including for flu and COVID.

CDC image.