New York Press Releases Department of Health - State, County and Town 2025/2026

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New York City

The New York City Health Department Recommends that All New Yorkers Get Updated Flu and COVID-19 Vaccines for This Respiratory Virus Season

Updated Flu and COVID-19 vaccines protect against the strains of the viruses we predict will spread this season and are available to all New Yorkers 6 months and older

Older adults and pregnant people should also get the RSV vaccine if they have not done so before

October 20, 2025 — Respiratory virus season is here, and the New York City Health Department (NYC Health Department) is urging New Yorkers to roll up their sleeves to protect themselves against the flu, COVID-19, and RSV. This season’s updated vaccines will protect against the strains of the virus predicted so spread this season and ensure New Yorkers are protected against the worst outcomes of all three viruses, like emergency room visits, hospitalizations or even death

Respiratory virus season starts in the fall and lasts throughout the winter and into the spring. As part of this year’s season, the NYC Health Department is launching the Respiratory Illness Data Portal that provides New Yorkers the data they need on flu, COVID-19, and RSV trends across the city. This portal will be updated every Thursday with the latest data for all three illnesses.

“Respiratory virus season is here which means it’s time for New Yorkers to get your vaccines.” said Acting Health Commissioner Dr. Michelle Morse. “I want every New Yorker, their families, and their communities to be protected and safe this fall and winter.”

Flu Vaccine Guidance
All New Yorkers 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine this fall. New Yorkers 50 and older, children younger than 5 years, those with certain underlying conditions and pregnant people are at particular risk of serious outcomes from the flu. Every year, about 1,500 to 2,000 New Yorkers die of seasonal flu and pneumonia, which can develop as a complication of the flu. Flu vaccine lowers the risk of hospitalization and death due to flu.

Since flu activity can be unpredictable and flu viruses can be found year-round, people are recommended to get the vaccine in September or October, though it is never too late to be vaccinated as long as flu is circulating.

COVID-19 Vaccine Guidance
The NYC Health Department recommends that all New Yorkers aged 6 months and older get the COVID-19 vaccine. All New Yorkers will benefit from the vaccine, and those who are 65 years of age or older, 6 to 23 months old, have underlying conditions that put them at risk for severe disease, or are pregnant will benefit even more.

The updated 2025 – 2026 COVID-19 vaccines are designed to be more effective at protecting against the variants that are currently circulating. Vaccination against COVID-19 remains the best defense to prevent severe COVID-19. There is no new data that raises any concerns about the safety of the updated COVID-19 vaccine.

RSV Vaccine Guidance
Adults 75 and older, and those ages 50-74 with certain chronic conditions or other risk factors, should also get an RSV vaccine, if they have not done so before. To protect the youngest New Yorkers, people who are pregnant should get the RSV vaccine during pregnancy, or their newborn infant should get an RSV monoclonal antibody.

How to Get Vaccinated & Stay Safe
Check with your health care provider to see if they are offering vaccinations. Vaccines are offered by hundreds of providers around the city, including pharmacies. New Yorkers can find a flu, COVID-19, and RSV vaccine near them by using the City’s NYC Health Map. No cost options are available for people who are uninsured. To assess your eligibility for enrollment in health insurance, call 311.

COVID-19, flu, and RSV share many common symptoms, so it is important to get tested if you suspect you may have one of these illnesses as diagnosis can impact treatment. Wearing a mask, practicing good hand hygiene, avoiding crowded spaces, and staying home when sick are important ways to stay safe and protect others during the respiratory virus season.
#049-25

MEDIA CONTACT: PressOffice@health.nyc.gov

https://www.nyc.gov/site/doh/about/press/pr2025/respiratory-virus-season-is-here-update-vaccines.page
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New York State Department of Health Urges Nursing Homes to Increase COVID-19 Vaccinations to Protect Vulnerable Residents

​ Department Issues Reminder to Facilities on the Importance of Vaccination and Infection Prevention Measures


ALBANY, N.Y. (October 30, 2025) – The New York State Department of Health today urged nursing homes and adult care facilities to take immediate steps to increase COVID-19 vaccination among residents, as updated data show that just under half of residents statewide are currently up to date with the latest vaccine.

There are more than 98,000 nursing home residents across New York State. As of October 2025, 46 percent of residents are up to date on their COVID-19 vaccinations, and more than 4,800 vaccine doses were administered to residents last week alone.

The Department issued a Dear Administrator Letter this week to all nursing home operators, emphasizing their responsibility to offer the updated vaccine to residents and staff, consistent with State and federal guidance.

"There are over 98,000 residents in our nursing homes, and just under half are up to date with the COVID vaccine," said State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald. "As we enter the respiratory illness season, now is the best time to get vaccinated and achieve the strongest protection against COVID. Nursing home residents are particularly vulnerable to severe illness and death from COVID-19. Nursing homes are required to offer the vaccine to residents, and it is up to them and their families if they accept it. Clearly, the benefit of immunization outweighs the risk."

COVID-19 continues to cause preventable illness and death among older adults and individuals with weakened immune systems. Vaccination remains the most effective way to reduce the risk of severe outcomes, hospitalization, and mortality.

In 2024, there were 349 COVID-related deaths among nursing home residents, underscoring the importance of continued vigilance. The Department's Office of Aging and Long-Term Care is working closely with facilities to improve vaccination rates and strengthen infection prevention practices ahead of the winter season.

For information on the 2025–2026 COVID-19 vaccine and guidance for long-term care facilities, visit COVID-19 | Department of Health.
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https://www.health.ny.gov/press/releases/2025/2025-10-30_covid19_vaccinations.htm

 

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November 24, 2025
New York State Department of Health Encourages New Yorkers to Get Flu Vaccine to Prevent Influenza-Associated Pediatric Deaths
[emphasis is mine]
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Seasonal Influenza Is More Dangerous Than the Common Cold for Children

ALBANY, N.Y. (November 24, 2025) – The New York State Department of Health is urging eligible New Yorkers, including children and adolescents, to get the 2025-2026 seasonal influenza (flu) vaccine. During the 2024-2025 influenza season, NYS reported 27 pediatric influenza-associated deaths, the most the Department has ever recorded in a single flu season. Each year, flu places a large burden on the health and well-being of children and families, and vaccination remains the best protection against serious illness.

The Department strongly recommends everyone ages 6 months and older get a seasonal flu vaccine. The vaccine is readily available at pharmacies and health care providers across the state.

The seasonal flu vaccine is not approved for use in children younger than 6 months old, yet infants in this age group face a higher risk of severe complications from the flu. The best way to protect them is to make sure all members of their household and their caregivers are vaccinated.

"Last year's flu season, we lost 27 of our children to the flu, more than any year in our memory," State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said." We are already seeing a significant increase in cases of flu throughout the state. The flu vaccine is the best protection for children, keep in mind, infants less than 6 months are vulnerable and not able to be immunized, so very important all of those around them are up to date with the vaccine."

New York State Data:

o 78% were unvaccinated

o 19% were ineligible for vaccination

o 4% were vaccinated

• 2024-2025 Season, 27 deaths in children younger than 18 years were reported:

The seasonal flu vaccine remains the best protection against hospitalization, serious illness, and death from the flu. The flu vaccine remains available to New Yorkers ages 2 and older at a health care provider's office or at participating pharmacies without a prescription. Children 6 months and older can receive the flu vaccine at a health care provider's office. More information about the flu vaccine is available here.

Information about vaccine safety can be found here.
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https://www.health.ny.gov/press/rel...ent_influenza-associated_pediatric_deaths.htm

 

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[emphasis is mine]

New York State Department of Health Declares Flu Prevalent Across the State

​ Declaration Requires Facilities to Ensure Health Care Workers Unvaccinated for Flu Wear Masks in Certain Health Care Settings

Department Urges Vaccination Ahead of Upcoming Holidays


ALBANY, N.Y. (December 2, 2025) – New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald today declared that influenza (flu) is now 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.

"The declaration that flu is prevalent across the state means health care facilities and agencies must require that personnel who are not vaccinated against the flu wear a mask to avoid exposing patients and residents to the flu virus," State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said. "The flu vaccine is the best way to protect against infection and lessens symptoms if you get the flu. I encourage everyone 6 months and older to get a flu shot, and it's not too late to protect yourself and your loved ones."

The declaration requires health care and residential care facilities and agencies regulated by the State Health Department ensure personnel who are unvaccinated for flu wear surgical or procedure masks during those times when influenza is declared prevalent in New York State.

The regulations allow for the removal of masks when health care workers are accompanying patients in the community, providing speech therapy services, or communicating with persons who lip read.

The Department's most recent data, through November 22, shows a total of 17,783 positive flu cases across 62 counties in New York have been reported this season to date.

Outside of New York City, week-over-week lab-confirmed flu cases are up 114%, rising from 1,688 cases in the previous week to 3,619. In New York City, cases are up 119%, rising from 1,890 cases in the previous week to 4,146.

Hospitalizations due to influenza climbed by 99%, up from 208 in the previous week to 413 across the State.

A chart illustrating statewide influenza, COVID-19, and RSV hospitalization trends for the current season is available here.

On November 24, the Department issued a press release encouraging New Yorkers to get the 2025-2026 seasonal flu vaccine to prevent influenza-associated pediatric deaths. In the 2024-2025 season, 27 deaths in children younger than 18 years were reported.

Current influenza information is available on the Department's Flu Tracker, which provides timely information about local, regional and statewide influenza activity, and the new Respiratory Surveillance Report.

National Influenza Vaccination Week

December 1-5, 2025 is National Influenza Vaccination Week, an important reminder that as long as flu viruses are circulating, it is not too late to get vaccinated. Even when flu vaccination does not prevent infection completely, it can help protect against serious flu-related complications, including hospitalization and death.

The flu shot is available to those 6 months and older. Young children, pregnant women, people with certain chronic medical conditions and those ages 65 and older are most at risk of developing serious complications.

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.

Avoiding illness by getting a flu shot remains the most effective way to prevent infection and reduce the risk of severe illness for children and adults.

The Department utilizes a number of tools to increase public knowledge about rising flu rates and the importance of vaccinations as a critical prevention step, including public education campaigns and information on social media platforms Instagram, Facebook and X (Twitter).

The flu shot is widely available, found at pharmacies, health clinics and physician's offices across the state. The flu vaccine is available to New Yorkers ages 2 and older at a health care provider's office or at participating pharmacies without a prescription. Children 6 months and older can receive the flu vaccine at a health care provider's office.

In addition to getting the flu vaccine, simple preventive actions can help stop the spread of influenza and other respiratory viruses:

• 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.
• Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home when sick.
• Cover cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

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.

For more information about influenza in New York, visit the Department's flu website.
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https://www.health.ny.gov/press/releases/2025/2025-12-02_flu_prevalent.htm

 

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Tompkins County

Health Alert: National Influenza Vaccination Week; Flu Prevalent in NY
Published on December 04, 2025

Tompkins County Whole Health (TCWH) is reminding the community of the importance of influenza (flu) vaccination during National Influenza Vaccination Week. The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus. The New York State Department of Health (NYS DOH) has declared flu to already be prevalent statewide. With cases of the flu being reported across New York State (NYS) and Tompkins County, now is the time to be vaccinated if you have not already done so.

Vaccination is the best protection against the flu. It is proven to cut down on hospitalizations and death from the flu. Vaccination can prevent you from getting sick, which can prevent you from spreading the flu to others.

In the 2023-2024 flu season (the last flu season there is final data for), over 40 million Americans became sick with the flu, resulting in over 470,000 hospitalizations and over 28,000 people died. Of those deceased, 280 were children, and approximately 89% of the children who died were not vaccinated. Already in NYS, for this 2025-2026 flu season, over 17,000 cases have already been reported, with 945 hospitalizations to date.

TCWH’s Medical Director Dr. Klepack stated, “Influenza typically increases rapidly beginning in December and continuing into January. It continues to be a problem through February and even can persist through April. To be protected do not delay – get vaccinated now. It takes about 2 weeks after being vaccinated to start having protection. I urge you to take the flu seriously and get vaccinated before the holidays.”

Influenza (flu) viruses are highly contagious, spread mainly by tiny droplets from coughing, sneezing, or talking. Flu symptoms usually begin suddenly. People who are sick with flu often feel some or all of the following symptoms:

• Fever and/or feeling feverish or having chills
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle or body aches
• Headaches
• Fatigue (tiredness)
• Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.

Sinus and ear infections are examples of moderate complications from flu, while pneumonia is a serious flu complication that can result from either flu virus infection alone or from co-infection of flu virus and bacteria. Other possible serious complications triggered by flu can include inflammation of the heart (myocarditis), brain (encephalitis) or muscle tissues (myositis, rhabdomyolysis), and multi-organ failure (for example, respiratory and kidney failure). Flu virus infection of the respiratory tract can trigger an extreme inflammatory response in the body and can lead to sepsis, the body’s life-threatening response to infection.

Flu also can make chronic medical problems worse. For example, people with asthma may experience asthma attacks while they have flu, and people with chronic heart disease may experience a worsening of this condition triggered by flu. Should you become infected with the flu, antiviral treatments can be used to treat flu illness; those should be started as early as possible and are especially important for those at higher risk of severe illness.

TCWH’s Medical Director Dr. William Klepack stated, “Vaccination is the best protection against the flu. Children under 5 years, persons 65 years and older, people with certain chronic health conditions, and pregnant women and their babies are most at risk from severe complications from the flu and should definitely get vaccinated. But we should all get vaccinated so that we don’t lose time from work, spread the virus to others, or suffer from the miserable symptoms of influenza. Especially if you have a highly vulnerable family member, co-worker, or friend, you should get vaccinated to help protect them.”

It is recommended that everyone ages 6 months and older receives a flu vaccine every year. Flu vaccines are available at many locations throughout our community, including healthcare provider offices, pharmacies, and clinics. Vaccination in previous years is not sufficient since the flu virus changes each year. Getting this year’s vaccine for this year’s virus is best. For people aged 65 or over, the “high dose” flu vaccine has been shown to be most effective. If the “high dose” vaccine is not available, people in this age group should get a standard dose flu vaccine instead, so as not to delay their vaccination.

Just as the flu vaccine keeps you from serious illness, so does the COVID-19 vaccine. Everyone ages 6 months and older can now also receive an updated COVID-19 vaccine. COVID-19 vaccines can be taken at the same time as a flu shot, so double up your protection this fall. The number of deaths in the United States from COVID-19 in 2024 was 47,522; year-to-date for 2025, 15,940 deaths have been attributed to COVID-19. TCWH recommends that you consider getting both the flu and the COVID-19 vaccine at the same time.

To get one or both vaccines, check with your local pharmacy or talk to your healthcare provider. The local volunteer-run Vaccination Conversations with Scientists (VaCS) continues to update their website with local vaccine availability. Dial 2-1-1 (1-877-211-8667) for assistance with finding an appointment, setting up primary healthcare or health insurance.

Tompkins County Whole Health offers low or no-cost immunization clinics, including flu and COVID-19 vaccines, every Friday through the New York State funded Vaccines for Children (VFC) and Vaccines for Adult (VFA) programs. Clinics are open from 9am-12pm and 1pm-4pm by appointment only.

Children may be eligible for participation in our Friday clinics if they:

• Do not have insurance, or
• Are currently enrolled in Medicaid, or
• Have Child Health Plus, or
• Are underinsured: their insurance does not cover the vaccine, or
• Are Native American or Alaska Native

Adults ages 19 and older who are under-insured (insurance does not cover the vaccine) or do not have insurance may be eligible to participate in our clinics as well. Call our office at 607-274-6604 to learn more or to schedule an appointment.

Learn more about the influenza online at: https://tompkinscountyny.gov/health/flu

Tompkins County Whole Health: envisioning a future where every person in Tompkins County can achieve wellness. Find us online at: https://www.tompkinscountyny.gov/health and follow us on Facebook, Instagram or X. Sign up to receive Whole Health updates or other county announcements via email or text.

https://www.tompkinscountyny.gov/Al...-December/National-Influenza-Vaccination-Week
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New York State Department of Health Urges New Yorkers to Protect Themselves From Respiratory Illness Ahead of the Holidays

Vaccines Are Available to Protect Against Influenza, COVID and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)

Find Flu and COVID Vaccines at Your Local Pharmacy or Health Care Provider

RSV Information Available Here

ALBANY, N.Y. (December 9, 2025) – The New York State Department of Health wishes everyone a safe and healthy holiday season, with a reminder that vaccines are available to protect against influenza (flu), COVID and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), ahead of holiday gatherings and travel.

"We expect a more severe flu season due to circulating strains of the virus compared to last year. To protect yourself and loved ones against COVID, influenza and RSV, we strongly encourage you to take action for your health and get vaccinated ahead of the holidays," State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said. "Gathering with loved ones is what this season is all about. Vaccines ensure we have the best protection."

In November, the Department launched the new Respiratory Surveillance Report offering a more comprehensive view of respiratory illness trends statewide.

A chart illustrating statewide influenza, COVID and RSV hospitalization trends for the current season is available here.

Flu
Last week, Commissioner McDonald declared flu prevalent across New York.

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 (starting the first week of October).

In the past week, lab-confirmed flu cases are up 80 percent, rising from 8,077 cases in the previous week to 14,506. Hospitalizations due to flu climbed by 93 percent, up from 413 in the previous week to 798 across the State.

As of November 17, 2025, 3.4 million flu vaccines were reported statewide compared to 3.5 million during the same time in 2024, representing a 5.3-percent decrease.

Those aged 65 years and older, people with certain chronic medical conditions, young children, infants and pregnant people are at higher risk of developing serious complications from the flu, which could require hospitalization and result in death.

During the 2024-2025 influenza season, New York State reported 27 pediatric influenza-associated deaths, the most the Department has ever recorded in a single flu season. Each year, flu places a large burden on the health and well-being of children and families, and vaccination remains the best protection against serious illness. The Department strongly recommends everyone ages 6 months and older get a seasonal flu vaccine which is readily available at pharmacies and health care providers across the state.

The Department's Flu Tracker provides timely information about local, regional and statewide influenza activity. For those who get the flu, antiviral medications, such as Tamiflu, can be prescribed by health care providers and can reduce the length and severity of the illness.

More information about the flu is available here, including fact sheets and other downloadable materials.

COVID
COVID continues to cause significant illness across the state, and if historical trends hold, there will likely be a spike in COVID activity this winter. In the week ending November 29, there were 1,948 cases of COVID reported to the Department, and 333 individuals were hospitalized with COVID.

Last month, The New York State Department of Health urged New Yorkers, especially older adults, to get the updated COVID vaccine as reported vaccination uptake in 2025 is significantly lower than this time last year. According to Department data, approximately 1.3 million doses have been administered statewide since August 29. During the same period in 2024, approximately 1.6 million doses were administered, representing a decrease in doses administered by 30 percent compared to this time last year. Among adults aged 65 and older, who face the highest risk of severe illness and death from COVID, doses administered decreased nearly 25 percent when compared to levels during the same period in 2024.

Individuals who have symptoms should test for COVID, and those who test positive should contact their health care provider about possible treatments, which have been shown to be effective at reducing the chances of serious outcomes. More information on treatment options can be found here.

Governor Hochul has extended an executive order allowing pharmacists to continue administering COVID vaccines to provide timely and convenient access. New Yorkers as young as 3 can go directly to most pharmacies and get their shot. Children under 3 can receive COVID vaccines from their health care provider.

In response to federal efforts to restrict COVID vaccine access, the Department, in partnership with the Northeast Public Health Collaborative, provided detailed COVID vaccine guidance to ensure New Yorkers have access to science-based immunization recommendations.

More information about COVID vaccines is available here

RSV
Respiratory syncitial virus (RSV) typically reaches its peak in December and January and disproportionately impacts the very young and the old. This year, cases are still rising in the state. There were 2,200 cases reported for the week ending November 29, with 256 hospitalized. The vast majority of cases and hospitalizations this year for RSV have been in the 0-4 age group.

A vaccine is available for RSV for older adults and for people who are pregnant. It's important for New Yorkers who are 75 years and older to get vaccinated. Those who are 60 to 74 years of age should talk with their health care providers to see if the RSV vaccine is right for them. Only one dose of RSV vaccine is needed.

People who are pregnant can protect their infant from RSV by getting a maternal vaccine. Pregnant people should contact their obstetrician/gynecologist for more information. In addition, there are now two immunizations available for newborns and young infants called nirsevamab and clesrovimab. They are made up of long-acting antibodies against RSV that are protective. Newborns can get nirsevamab or clesrovimab in the hospital after birth. Other infants who are younger than 8 months and those who are 8 to 19 months of age and have certain medical conditions are eligible and can get either in the doctor's office; talk to a pediatrician or health care provider. More information on RSV can be found here. For infants born 14 days or more after their mother received the RSV vaccine, additional antibodies are not needed.

Getting Vaccinated
It's safe, effective and convenient to get all three vaccines at the same time in the same appointment.

Information about vaccine efficacy and safety can be found here.

https://health.ny.gov/press/releases/2025/2025-12-09_respiratory_illness.htm

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Statement From State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald on Staying Healthy During the Holidays

​ALBANY, N.Y. (December 18, 2025) - "As New Yorkers gather with loved ones to celebrate the holiday season, I encourage everyone to take simple steps to protect their health and the health of those around them. The holidays are a time for connection and community—and with a few thoughtful precautions, we can help make sure those moments stay joyful.

"I urge New Yorkers to stay up to date on recommended vaccinations, including flu and COVID-19, practice good hand hygiene and stay home if you're feeling sick. If you're traveling or hosting gatherings, consider taking extra measures to protect older adults, young children and anyone who may be at higher risk.

"Together, we can reduce the spread of illness and ensure a safer, healthier season for everyone. Wishing you and your loved one's warmth, laughter and moments that make your heart sparkle this holiday season."
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https://health.ny.gov/press/releases/2025/2025-12-18_commissioner_statement.htm

 

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[emphasis is mine]

New York State Department of Health Confirms Highest Number of Flu Hospitalizations in a Week

State Reports Almost 1,000 More Hospitalizations Than Previous Week


ALBANY, N.Y. (January 2, 2026) - The New York State Department of Health today announced that the state is experiencing the highest number of flu hospitalizations recorded in a single week.

"We are having a more severe flu season than prior years, almost 1,000 more people were admitted to a hospital during this most recent 7-day period compared to the prior week," State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said. "There is still time to get a flu shot and remember, flu can be treated with antiviral medication if started within 48 hours of symptom onset and your doctor deems appropriate."

Symptoms include fever or feeling feverish/chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headache, tiredness, vomiting or diarrhea even though it is more common in children.

The Department's most recent data shows a total of 4,546 hospitalizations, almost 1,000 more than last week.

Last week, the Department announced that the state experienced the highest number of flu cases ever recorded in a single week.

Last 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.

The number of flu cases reported has risen in recent years with more laboratories testing and reporting results, and with multi-pathogen panels becoming the primary way to test individuals presenting with respiratory symptoms. But this record number underscores that this season is impacting more people than in other recent years. Flu season typically peaks in January.

The latest Respiratory Surveillance Report and Flu Tracker can be found here. Please note, data are updated weekly on Friday by 5 p.m. during the surveillance season.

It is not too late to get vaccinated against influenza, and the flu vaccine is widely available to those 6 months and older. Young children, pregnant women, people with certain chronic medical conditions and those ages 65 and older are most at risk of developing serious complications from flu.

To treat the flu, there are antiviral medications that can be prescribed by health care providers, which can reduce the length and severity of the illness but must be administered close to the onset of symptoms.

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.

The flu vaccine is widely available, found at pharmacies, health clinics and physician's offices across the state. The flu vaccine is available to New Yorkers ages 2 and older at a health care provider's office or at participating pharmacies without a prescription. Children 6 months and older can receive the flu vaccine at a health care provider's office.

In addition to getting the flu vaccine, simple preventive actions can help stop the spread of influenza and other respiratory viruses:

• 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.
• Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home when sick.
• Cover cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

For more information about influenza in New York, visit the Department's flu website.

Revised: January 2026
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https://www.health.ny.gov/press/releases/2026/2026-01-02_flu_hospitalizations.htm

 

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New York City
January 8, 2026
NYC Health Depatment Releases New Respiratory Virus Data Amid Difficult Flu Season, Federal Changes to Childhood Vaccination Schedule

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Over 128,000 Flu Cases Have Been Reported In New York City This Flu Season, 54% Among Children Under 18, as RFK Jr. Weakens Vaccine Recommendations

In December, the NYC Health Department Recorded the Highest Number of Flu Cases in a Single Week Since 2005

While Recently Reported Flu Cases Declined in New York City, the NYC Health Department Warns That Flu Season Isn’t Over: Get Vaccinated, Stay Home if Sick, Wear a Mask, and Wash Your Hands

VIDEO: Watch the Health Department’s most recent media brief on this flu season here

January 8, 2026 — Today, the New York City Health Department released new data on respiratory virus season as New York City is seeing a high number of lab-reported flu cases amid recent federal changes to the childhood vaccination schedule. For the week ending December 20, 2025, more than 32,000 positive flu cases were reported in New York City. This was the most the Health Department has seen reported in a single week since 2005, when full-year data first became available. New data shows a two-week decline in flu cases as we entered the new year, but the Health Department is warning New Yorkers that flu season is far from over. There is still time to get vaccinated, and New Yorkers should follow additional recommendations to protect themselves and their loved ones.

“It is peak flu season and New York City is experiencing very high rates of the flu. The NYC Health Department recently reported 32,000 flu cases, the most in one week since 2005. As the season continues, it's important for New Yorkers to roll up their sleeves and get their updated flu shots to protect themselves and their families from serious illness,” Acting Health Commissioner Dr. Michelle Morse said. “With the federal government weakening the vaccine schedule at the height of flu season, the Health Department is affirming its recommendations to take advantage of life-saving vaccines.”

To date this season, there have been over 128,000 positive flu cases reported in New York City. Over half of that number, 54%, have been children under 18. For the week ending January 3, 2026, there were more than 12,000 laboratory-reported flu cases, marking a notable decline from the previous week. Among last week’s new cases, 30% were children under 18 years. Approximately 5% of emergency room visits were flu-related, which is down from 8% in the prior week. The proportion of hospitalizations related to the flu decreased from 4.5% to 3.5%, compared with the previous week.

Among other respiratory viruses, the proportion of emergency room visits and hospital admissions for RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) remain elevated, particularly among those aged 0-4, while COVID-19 activity remains relatively low and stable for now. The Health Department will continue to update this preliminary data as new information is received. The Health Department’s Respiratory Illness Data Page will be updated next on January 15, with data through the week ending January 10.

Last year’s flu season (2024-2025) was record-setting for pediatric flu deaths. Of the 288 children nationwide who passed away from flu and were eligible to get a flu shot, 89% had not been vaccinated.

Preliminary research from the United Kingdom found that this year’s flu vaccine was more than 70% effective at keeping children and adolescents out of the hospital.

Stay Safe

While a recent decrease in reported flu cases is good news, the NYC Health Department is reminding New Yorkers that flu season is far from over, and cases could rise in the coming weeks. The department is urging New Yorkers to remain vigilant and continue taking precautions to stay healthy and safe.

COVID-19, flu, and RSV can cause serious illness and make you sick for days or even weeks. Each year, about 1,500 to 2,000 New Yorkers die of seasonal flu and pneumonia, which can develop as a complication of any of these three viruses. More than 900 people died from COVID-19 in New York City in 2024. If you or someone in your household is sick, take precautions, such as:

• Get vaccinated.
• Wear a mask.
• Wash your hands often.
• Cover your coughs and sneezes.
• Frequently clean touched surfaces.
• Stay home when sick.

The Health Department recommends all New Yorkers 6 months and older get this season’s flu and COVID-19 vaccines. Adults 75 and older, and those ages 50 –74 with certain chronic conditions or other risk factors, should also get an RSV vaccine if they have not done so before. To protect the youngest New Yorkers, pregnant people should get the RSV vaccine during pregnancy, or their newborn should get an RSV monoclonal antibody.

Ask your health provider if they are offering vaccinations. Vaccines are available from hundreds of providers around the city, including pharmacies. Find a COVID-19, flu, and RSV vaccine near you by using the NYC Health Map. No-cost options are available for people who are uninsured. To assess your eligibility for enrollment in health insurance, call 311.

The Health Department’s Respiratory Illness Data Page posts data on COVID-19, flu, and RSV trends across the city, updated every Thursday.

​https://www.nyc.gov/site/doh/about/press/pr2026/new-respiratory-virus-data-release-01082026.page

 

[Commonground]

New York State Department of Health Urges New Yorkers To Get Vaccinated As Flu Cases Remain High

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Department Emphasizes the Importance of Vaccination During Flu Season


ALBANY, N.Y. (January 9, 2026) – The New York State Department of Health continues to urge New Yorkers to get vaccinated against influenza as flu activity remains high statewide. Flu continues to pose a serious risk, and vaccination remains the best way to prevent severe illness, hospitalization and death.

"This is going to be a long, hard flu season. While we did see a small decrease in hospitalizations last week, there were still more hospitalizations than last year's peak," State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said. "I remain very concerned about the impact on our state. Vaccination is still the best protection and remember, if you do get the flu, prescription treatment in the first 48 hours can be very effective."

Symptoms include fever or feeling feverish/chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headache, tiredness, vomiting or diarrhea even though it is more common in children.

For the week ending January 3, hospitalizations from flu decreased. For the week ending January 3, there were 4,228 hospitalizations from flu, a decrease of 7 percent over the previous week. Additionally, there were 28,544 reported cases of flu, a decrease over the previous week.

The latest Respiratory Surveillance Report and Flu Tracker can be found here. Please note, data are updated weekly on Friday by 5 p.m. during the surveillance season.

It is not too late to get vaccinated against influenza, and the flu vaccine is widely available to those 6 months and older. Young children, pregnant women, people with certain chronic medical conditions and those ages 65 and older are most at risk of developing serious complications from flu.

To treat the flu, there are antiviral medications that can be prescribed by health care providers, which can reduce the length and severity of the illness but must be administered close to the onset of symptoms.

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.

The flu vaccine is widely available, found at pharmacies, health clinics and physician's offices across the state. The flu vaccine is available to New Yorkers ages 2 and older at a health care provider's office or at participating pharmacies without a prescription. Children 6 months and older can receive the flu vaccine at a health care provider's office.

In addition to getting the flu vaccine, simple preventive actions can help stop the spread of influenza and other respiratory viruses:

• 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.
• Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home when sick.
• Cover cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

For more information about influenza in New York, visit the Department's flu website.

​https://www.health.ny.gov/press/releases/2026/2026-01-09_get_flu_vaccinated.htm

 

[Commonground]

NYC Health Department Releases New Data Showing More Than 140,000 Flu Cases This Respiratory Virus Season

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More than 3,600 Flu Cases Reported Last Week as Flu Continues to Circulate in New York City

This Season, 52 Percent of Flu Cases in New York City Among Children Under 18

Flu Season Isn’t Over: Get Vaccinated, Stay Home if Sick, Wear a Mask, and Wash Your Hands

January 22, 2026 — Today, the New York City Health Department released new data on respiratory virus season as the city continues to see lab-reported flu cases amid recent federal changes to the childhood vaccination schedule. New data show that flu continues to circulate in New York City, with more than 3,600 lab-reported cases for the week ending January 17. The Health Department warns that flu season can last until early May, and reminds New Yorkers there is still time to get vaccinated while continuing to follow recommendations to protect themselves and their loved ones.
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This record-breaking flu season has been tough on New Yorkers. Although we’re beginning to see a decrease in the number of cases, flu seasons are unpredictable and can last through May,” said New York City Acting Health Commissioner Dr. Michelle Morse. “Don’t let your guard down: Get vaccinated, stay home or wear a mask if you’re sick, and wash your hands frequently.”

To date this season, there have been more than 140,000 positive flu cases reported in New York City. Over half, 52 percent, have been children under 18. For the week ending January 17, there were more than 3,600 laboratory-reported flu cases, a notable decline from the previous week. Approximately 1.3 percent of emergency room visits had flu diagnoses, down from 2.5 percent in the prior week. The proportion of hospitalizations with flu diagnoses decreased from 2.1 percent to 0.9 percent, compared with the previous week.

Among other respiratory viruses, laboratory-reported RSV cases remained relatively stable overall, but New York City is still seeing its largest number of cases among New Yorkers younger than 18 years old. The proportion of emergency room visits with RSV remained stable while the proportion of hospitalizations with RSV increased from 0.3 percent to 0.4 percent compared with the previous week. COVID-19 cases are low and decreased to almost 1000 cases compared to 1300 cases the previous week. While emergency room visits with COVID-19 are stable, we are seeing increases in hospital admissions with COVID-19.

The NYC Health Department will continue to update these preliminary data as new information is received. The Health Department’s Respiratory Illness Data Page will be updated next on January 29, with data through the week ending January 24.



Last year’s flu season (2024-2025) was record-setting for pediatric flu deaths, with 289 children reported nationwide. Of the 289 children who passed away from flu and were eligible to get a flu shot, 89 percent had not been vaccinated.  Preliminary research from the United Kingdom found that this year’s flu vaccine was more than 70 percent effective at keeping children and adolescents out of the hospital. Stay Safe


While a recent decrease in reported flu cases is good news, the NYC Health Department is reminding New Yorkers that flu season is far from over, and cases could rise in the coming weeks. The department is urging New Yorkers to remain vigilant and continue taking precautions to stay healthy and safe.

COVID-19, flu, and RSV can cause serious illness and make you sick for days or even weeks. Each year, about 1,500 to 2,000 New Yorkers die of seasonal flu and pneumonia, which can develop as a complication of any of these three viruses. More than 900 people died from COVID-19 in New York City in 2024. If you or someone in your household is sick, take precautions, such as:

• Get vaccinated
• Wear a mask
• Wash your hands often
• Cover your coughs and sneezes
• Clean frequently touched surfaces
• Stay home when sick

The Health Department recommends all New Yorkers 6 months and older get this season’s flu and COVID-19 vaccines. Adults 75 and older, and those ages 50–74 with certain chronic conditions or other risk factors, should also get an RSV vaccine if they have not done so before. To protect the youngest New Yorkers, pregnant people should get the RSV vaccine during pregnancy, or their newborn should get an RSV monoclonal antibody.

Ask your health provider if they are offering vaccinations. Vaccines are available from hundreds of providers around the city, including pharmacies. Find a COVID-19, flu, and RSV vaccine near you by using the NYC Health Map. No-cost options are available for people who are uninsured. To assess your eligibility for enrollment in health insurance, call 311.

The Health Department’s Respiratory Illness Data Page posts data on COVID-19, flu, and RSV trends across the city, updated every Thursday.

​https://www.nyc.gov/site/doh/about/press/pr2026/new-respiratory-virus-data-release-01222026.page

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