‘Get Your Flu Shot,’ New Campaign Urges New Yorkers

NEW YORK CITY — Expect to see four words of important medical advice on the subway, television and social: Get your flu shot.

“This year’s flu vaccine could be the most important one that you ever get,” said Dave Chokshi, the city’s health commissioner, on Tuesday.

Chokshi sat alongside Mayor Bill de Blasio and unveiled a new ad campaign encouraging New Yorkers to get their flu vaccinations.

Doctors advise getting the flu vaccine every year, but this year is different. Officials worry that flu season — which normally claims the lives of 2,000 New Yorkers a year — could compound the toll felt by the new coronavirus pandemic.

All New Yorkers over 6 months of age should get the flu vaccine, particularly the young and elderly who are most vulnerable, Chokshi said.

De Blasio said the outreach effort will reach out to every corner of the city.

“It’s a reminder to all of us — when you get the flu shot you’re not just protecting yourself, you’re protecting your family, your whole community,” he said.

People can find out where to get flu shots by calling 311, texting “FLU” to 877-877 or visiting nyc.gov/FLU.