New York saw its first drop in new flu cases for the first time in weeks, good news amid the “tridemic” threat of flu, RSV and COVID-19. Pediatric deaths, tragically, have increased.
At least state health officials are confirming five pediatric deaths about the flu so far this season in the latest New York weekly flu report. New York accounts for roughly 13% of all pediatric flu deaths nationwide, according to data released last week.
New Yorkers have been urged to get their annual flu shot, especially those 6 months and older, in light of the rise in deaths.
“The flu vaccine is a good match this year and the best way to avoid serious illness is to get vaccinated,” said State Health Commissioner Dr. Mary T. Bassett. “These recommendations are simple but important ways to protect our families and our communities from serious illness this winter.”
A state chart tracking weekly changes in flu cases shows a four percent drop in cases statewide during the week, a decline mirrored across the country. Despite that drop, the state’s previous week’s worth of new cases accounted for nearly 25% of all infections reported this season.
The number of flu hospitalizations fell for a second week in a row, according to a national surveillance system run by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The annual winter flu season doesn’t usually start until December or January, but this one started in early November. It is compounded by the simultaneous spread of other viruses, including COVID-19 and RSV.
As holiday season gatherings of family and friends and crowded activities get underway, health officials say it’s important to take safety precautions to protect yourself from the flu. Among the recommendations is vaccination and wearing a mask if you are symptomatic or if you have or are near someone at increased risk. Those considered most vulnerable to infection include children under the age of five, pregnant women, the elderly and those with underlying health conditions, such as a weakened immune system, diabetes, heart and lung disease and asthma.
In addition to getting the vaccine, health officials also recommend other preventative measures to help stop the spread of flu, COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses:
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available;
- Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands;
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick;
- Stay home when you are sick;
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the faculate in the bin;
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
Faced with high levels of cases of COVID-19, influenza and RSV, New York City health officials also issued an advisory last weekurging New Yorkers to wear masks.
NYC Health Commissioner Dr. Ashwin Vasan says the increase in respiratory viruses is why the city’s health office is recommending not only the use of masks, but also vaccines and boosters.
“While respiratory viruses are running high in NYC, there are common ways to protect yourself and your loved ones this holiday season: getting vaccinated, boosters, wearing a mask in or among crowds, and staying home if you’re not feeling well . ”, Vasan said in a tweet.
The city’s advisory recommends that everyone should wear a mask at all times when indoors as well as outdoors in crowded areas. City officials also urge those who are sick and cannot be separated from others to wear masks. Additionally, those who test positive for COVID-19 must wear masks.
“Wear a high-quality mask, such as a KN95 or KF94 respirator or an N95 respirator, for additional protection,” city health officials say.
