NEW YORK — Governor Kathy Hochul on Monday urged New Yorkers to take precautions this holiday season to protect young children, the elderly, and people with underlying health conditions from respiratory viruses like RSV, influenza, and COVID-19.
With statewide travel and indoor gatherings prevalent during the Thanksgiving holiday, the Democrat called on New Yorkers to take common preventative steps such as keeping up to date with vaccinations and practicing proper hygiene to protect against these viruses and reduce the burden of patients in local hospitals .
“As many New Yorkers look forward to gathering with friends and family this Thanksgiving holiday, we must also take the common-sense steps we know are effective in reducing the spread of respiratory disease,” Governor Hochul said. “Make sure you stay up to date on vaccinations, including flu shots and COVID-19 boosters. And if you get sick or develop symptoms, stay home and seek treatment from your primary care physician first.”
RSV, influenza, and COVID-19 can be especially dangerous for very young children, New Yorkers age 65 and older, and those with pre-existing health conditions. As a result of this threat, the state Department of Health issued a Health alert this fall to alert hospitals, local health departments, laboratories, emergency rooms and other health care providers to remain vigilant against the increase in respiratory disease.
To protect yourself from respiratory viruses, the Department of Health recommends precautions that include:
- Stay up to date on vaccinations, including flu and COVID-19.
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds.
- Do not cough or sneeze into your hands.
- Wash your hands regularly and use good hygiene.
- Stay home when you are sick or symptomatic.
- Wear a high-quality, well-fitting mask when in public indoor spaces.
- People who have someone in their family who is at higher risk, including those under 1 year of age, over 65 years of age, or with compromised immune systems, should be especially vigilant about wearing masks when outside the home or when other people enter your home, with scientific evidence to support this simple precautionary measure.
