Public Health and Influenza

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.