As Attention Shifts To Coronavirus, Flu Cases Soar In New York

NEW YORK — The number of flu cases has eclipsed the record number of seasonal cases since New York began tracking them. Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced Thursday that the latest report on influenza for the week ending Saturday shows 131,604 laboratory-confirmed cases so far this season.

That overshadows the previous record of 128,892 confirmed cases in 2017-18. The state began tracking flu cases during the 1998-99 season.

Even though the number of flu cases has reached historic levels, the number of confirmed flu cases decreased 26 percent last week, according to state data. The number of hospitalizations decreased 13 percent.

Cuomo said that, while he's encouraged to see another decrease in the number of new flu cases around the state, the current season has been grueling and New Yorkers should remain vigilant against the spread of the virus.

"If you haven't already been vaccinated, it's not too late," he said. "I urge you to get a vaccine and to please stay home if you are sick to avoid spreading the illness."

This was the second week in a row the number of newly confirmed cases of flu and hospitalizations resulting from it have decreased.

Health Commissioner Dr. Howard Zucker said the decline in those numbers is encouraging.

"Unfortunately, we endured three tragic flu-associated pediatric deaths this week," he said.

That brings the total number of flu-related pediatric deaths to nine this season, according to state data.

Influenza activity level is still categorized as widespread by health officials. This is the 13th consecutive week that widespread activity has been reported.

The state Health Department recommends and urges that everyone 6 months of age or older receive a flu shot. It is especially important that children 6 months to 8 years old who have gotten less than two doses of flu vaccine in their lifetime receive two doses of flu vaccine spaced at least four weeks apart for best protection against flu this season.

In addition, health officials said everyday preventative actions can help stop the spread of flu and other respiratory viruses:

• Wash your 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 your eyes, nose and mouth 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 tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

To find where you can obtain a flu shot, go here.

The state Health Department is also keeping an eye on the new coronavirus, which is officially known as COVID-19. As of Thursday, there still have been no confirmed cases of the new virus in the state. Six people in New York City tested negative for the virus, with 21 outside of the city also testing negative. There is one individual for whom a test result is pending.

State health officials said that, while there is currently no vaccine to prevent the new coronavirus, the same steps to prevent the flu listed above can help stop the spread of the virus.

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