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New York State Department of Health Recognizes National Influenza Vaccination Week

The Situation Report | December 9, 2024

The New York State Department of Health recognized National Influenza Vaccination Week, December 2 – 6. DOH encourages everyone aged 6 months and older to get the influenza vaccine to ensure a safe and healthy holiday season with friends and family.

Getting the flu vaccine has many benefits. Not only does it help prevent transmission of the flu, but it can make the illness less severe for those who do get sick. Getting a flu vaccine helps protect others from getting the flu, especially people at higher risk of developing complications including adults aged 65 and older, residents in nursing homes or long-term care facilities, or anyone with underlying medical conditions.

Anyone who is a caregiver to an infant should be vaccinated to try to prevent their infant from catching the flu, as infants under 6 months of age have a higher risk of flu complications but are too young for the flu vaccine.

The Department's latest flu surveillance report with data through November 30, shows a total of 2,830 positive influenza cases across 51 counties in New York have been reported, a 47-percent increase in positive cases compared with the previous week. So far this season, 7,776 cases have been reported statewide. View the current report and the NYS Flu Tracker here.

Symptoms of flu may include:

  • Fever or feeling feverish/chills
  • Cough
  • Sore throat
  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Muscle or body aches
  • Headache
  • Tiredness
  • Some people have vomiting or diarrhea. This is more common in children.

Simple preventative actions can also help stop the spread of flu 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.

Vaccines can be received at local pharmacies, community health clinics, special vaccination events, health care providers, local health departments and various other locations.

Visit vaccines.gov to find all vaccinations sites by location, check availability and schedule an appointment.

Check out HCANYS’ Infection Control page here.