New York reports record weekly flu cases and hospitalizations
The New York State Department of Health reported 71,123 lab-confirmed influenza cases in the week ending Dec. 20, the highest weekly total since flu became a reportable disease in the state in 2004, with flu-related hospitalizations jumping 63% over the prior week and cumulative cases reaching 189,312 this season. Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald warned that the rapidly intensifying season has already triggered a statewide 'prevalent' declaration requiring unvaccinated health-care workers to mask, as officials urge residents to get vaccinated, stay home when sick, and seek prompt antiviral treatment, especially for high-risk groups.
đ Key Facts
- New York logged 71,123 positive flu cases statewide in the week ending Dec. 20, a record weekly high since 2004.
- The weekly case count represents a 38% increase from the previous reporting period, and influenza-related hospitalizations rose 63% in the same week.
- There have been 189,312 reported flu cases so far this season, prompting a statewide 'prevalent' declaration that requires unvaccinated health-care workers to wear masks in patient-care settings.
đ Relevant Data
Black adults have 1.8 times higher age-adjusted influenza hospitalization rates than White adults, based on data from 2009 to 2023.
Flu and Healthy Lives for All â CDC
Hispanic or Latino adults have 1.2 times higher age-adjusted influenza hospitalization rates than White adults, based on data from 2009 to 2023.
Flu and Healthy Lives for All â CDC
American Indian/Alaska Native adults have 1.4 times higher age-adjusted influenza hospitalization rates than White adults, based on data from 2009 to 2023.
Flu and Healthy Lives for All â CDC
In the 2023-2024 flu season, adult flu vaccination coverage was 50% for Asian adults, 49% for White adults, 42% for Black adults, 35% for Hispanic adults, and 35% for American Indian/Alaska Native adults.
Flu and Healthy Lives for All â CDC
In 2023, New York state's population was approximately 53% White (Non-Hispanic), 13.5% Black or African American, 19% Hispanic or Latino, and 9% Asian.
New York â Data USA