COVID-19 Vaccination Rates Surge Among Older Adults, Driving Down Hospitalizations and Deaths
In 2024, more older adults in New York and across the nation have received the updated COVID-19 vaccine compared too the previous year. This uptick in vaccinations, combined with a less severe virus and immunity from prior infections, has led to a critically importent decline in hospitalizations and deaths, according to experts.
“COVID in 2025 is a different disease than COVID in March of 2020,” said Dr. Adrian Popp, an infectious disease specialist at Huntington Hospital. “After the virus’ repeated mutations, the disease is not as severe as it used to be.”
Despite this progress,older adults,particularly those with underlying health conditions,remain at higher risk for severe COVID-19 outcomes. This vulnerability underscores the importance of vaccination, a point emphasized by Dr. Aaron Glatt, chairman of medicine and chief of infectious diseases at mount Sinai South Nassau hospital in Oceanside.
“Thay’re the ones that need it the most and will benefit from it the most,” Glatt said.
Vaccination Rates on the Rise
Table of Contents
- COVID-19 in 2025: A Milder Threat, but Vulnerable Populations Remain at Risk
- COVID-19 Vaccination Rates Surge Among Older Adults, Driving Down Hospitalizations
- COVID-19 Hospitalizations and Deaths Decline on Long Island,but Vaccination Rates Lag
- Hospitalizations and Deaths Drop Sharply
- Vaccination Rates Lag in Nassau and Suffolk
- A Focused Approach to Vaccination
- Key data at a Glance
- The Road Ahead
Nationwide, more than 44% of adults aged 65 and older had received the updated vaccine by the week ending December 28, 2024, according to the National Immunization Survey. This marks a significant increase from 32% during the same period in 2023. The updated vaccine, released in August 2024, has been widely adopted by this age group, who are more likely to perceive their heightened risk.
In New York, vaccination rates among older adults rose to 36.8% between October 27 and November 30, 2024, up from 27.3% during a similar period in 2023, as per CDC data.Statewide,21.8% of all adults had received the updated vaccine by December 28, compared to 18% the previous year.
Younger Adults Lag Behind
While older adults have embraced the updated vaccine, younger populations have been slower to follow suit. Vaccination rates among adults aged 18 to 49 increased by just 1 percentage point, from 11.2% to 12.2%, according to the CDC survey.
The Power of Public Health Messaging
The surge in vaccinations among older adults can be attributed, in part, to more effective public health messaging in 2024.Perry Halkitis, a public health psychologist and dean of the Rutgers School of Public Health, noted that the CDC and other organizations emphasized the updated vaccine as a reformulated, more effective version, rather than a mere “booster.”
“from a psychological outlook, and from a health behavior perspective, the messaging was a lot more powerful,” Halkitis said. “The term ’booster’ implies something similar to the original,rather than something different.”
Impact on Hospitalizations and deaths
The increased vaccination rates have had a tangible impact on public health outcomes.COVID-19 deaths on Long Island decreased sharply in 2024, and while hospitalizations rose during the holiday season—a recurring trend as the pandemic began—far fewer people were hospitalized compared to previous winters.
Key Takeaways
The following table summarizes the key vaccination trends and their impact:
| Metric | 2023 | 2024 | Change |
|——————————–|———-|———-|————|
| Vaccination Rate (65+ Nationwide) | 32% | 44% | +12% |
| Vaccination Rate (65+ in NY) | 27.3% | 36.8% | +9.5% |
| Vaccination Rate (18-49 Nationwide) | 11.2% | 12.2% | +1% |
| COVID-19 Deaths (long Island) | Higher | Lower | Decreased |
A Call to Action
The data underscores the importance of continued vaccination efforts, particularly among older adults. As Dr. Glatt noted, this group stands to benefit the most from the updated vaccine. For younger adults, the challenge remains to bridge the gap in vaccination rates, ensuring broader protection against the virus.
The story of COVID-19 in 2025 is one of progress, but also of vigilance. As the virus continues to evolve, so too must our efforts to combat it.
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For more information on COVID-19 vaccination recommendations for older adults, visit the Health in Aging Foundation.
COVID-19 in 2025: A Milder Threat, but Vulnerable Populations Remain at Risk
As the COVID-19 pandemic enters its fifth year, the virus has evolved into a less severe but still persistent threat, particularly for older adults and those with underlying health conditions. While hospitalization and death rates have significantly declined compared to the early days of the pandemic, experts emphasize the importance of continued vigilance, especially for high-risk populations.
A Shift in Severity and Immunity
Dr. Adrian Popp, an infectious disease specialist at Huntington Hospital, notes that “COVID in 2025 is a different disease than COVID in March of 2020.” Repeated mutations have led to milder strains, and widespread immunity from prior infections and vaccinations has contributed to the decline in severe outcomes.
“The population has some degree of protection even if it’s not absolute,” said Dr. Leonard Krilov, an infectious disease consultant and former chairman of pediatrics at NYU Langone Hospital-Long Island.
This shift is evident in the data.On Long Island, COVID-19-related deaths dropped to 398 in 2024, compared to 657 in the previous year and a staggering 5,300 in 2020. Hospitalizations have also decreased, with this holiday season’s peak at 164 patients, far below the 661 recorded last winter and the 2,254 seen in early 2022.
Vaccination Rates: A Mixed Picture
While vaccination rates among older adults have improved,younger populations remain less protected. According to state data, Nassau and Suffolk counties have lower COVID-19 vaccination rates than the rest of New York, with 6.7% and 6.6% of residents vaccinated, respectively, compared to 9.7% statewide.
Dr. Aaron Glatt, an infectious disease specialist, highlights the importance of vaccinations for high-risk individuals. “For people at low risk, [getting COVID] is not the end of the world,” he said. “But people who are at high risk need to understand that this is still a potentially fatal disease.”
The National Immunization Survey provides a clearer picture of vaccination trends, as New York State’s data underestimates rates due to the lack of mandatory reporting for individuals aged 19 and older.
A Focused Approach to Vaccination
Health care providers are increasingly adopting a targeted approach, prioritizing high-risk groups like older adults. “It’s more of a focused, targeted approach,” Krilov said.
This strategy appears to be working. More older adults in New York and nationwide have received updated COVID-19 vaccines this year than last, contributing to the decline in severe outcomes.
Key Takeaways
| Metric | 2024 Data | 2023 Data | 2020 Data |
|—————————|———————————–|———————————–|———————————–|
| COVID-19 deaths (Long Island) | 398 | 657 | ~5,300 |
| Peak Hospitalizations | 164 | 661 | 2,254 |
| Vaccination Rates (Nassau/Suffolk) | 6.7% / 6.6% | N/A | N/A |
Looking Ahead
While the virus is no longer the overwhelming threat it once was, experts caution against complacency. Older adults and those with chronic health conditions remain vulnerable, and vaccination remains a critical tool in preventing severe illness.
As Dr. Popp aptly puts it, ”the disease is not as severe as it used to be,” but the need for continued protection, especially for high-risk groups, cannot be overstated.
For the latest updates on COVID-19 vaccination rates and trends, visit the New York State Department of Health.
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Stay informed and protect yourself and your loved ones by staying up-to-date with vaccinations and following public health guidelines.
COVID-19 Vaccination Rates Surge Among Older Adults, Driving Down Hospitalizations
As the nation continues to grapple with the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, a significant uptick in vaccination rates among older adults is offering a glimmer of hope. According to recent data from the National Immunization Survey, more than 44% of people aged 65 and older nationwide had received the updated COVID-19 vaccine as of late December 2024, a sharp increase from 32% during the same period in 2023. This surge in vaccinations is contributing to a notable decline in hospitalizations, particularly among the most vulnerable populations.
A Closer Look at the Numbers
The updated vaccine, which was released in August, has seen higher uptake among older adults compared to younger age groups.While vaccination rates for adults aged 18 to 49 increased by just 1 percentage point (from 11.2% to 12.2%), the rise among seniors has been far more pronounced.
In New York,the vaccination rate for those 65 and older jumped to 36.8% between October 27 and November 30, up from 27.3% during a similar period in 2023, according to CDC data.Statewide, 21.8% of adults of all ages had received the updated vaccine as of December 28, compared to 18% the previous year.
| Age Group | Vaccination Rate (Dec. 2023) | Vaccination Rate (Dec. 2024) |
|———————-|———————————-|———————————-|
| 65+ | 32% | 44.2% |
| 18-49 | 11.2% | 12.2% |
| All Adults (NY) | 18% | 21.8% |
Why Older Adults Are Leading the Charge
Older adults are among the most vulnerable to severe COVID-19 outcomes, making their increased vaccination rates particularly significant. “They’re the ones that need it the most and will benefit from it the most,” said Dr. Aaron Glatt, chairman of medicine and chief of infectious diseases at Mount Sinai South Nassau hospital in Oceanside.
The rise in vaccinations, combined with factors like a less virulent virus and immunity from previous infections, has led to a dramatic drop in hospitalizations. On Long Island, for example, COVID-19 hospitalizations early this month were about four times lower than during the same period last year.
The Role of Public Health Messaging
Experts attribute the higher vaccination rates to more effective public health messaging in 2024. Perry Halkitis, a public health psychologist and dean of the Rutgers School of Public Health in New Jersey, noted that the messaging around the updated vaccine was clearer and more compelling this year.
“The public-health messaging about the 2023 vaccine was more muddled than in 2024, when the CDC and others emphasized the newness of the updated vaccine — that it is a reformulated, more effective version, and ‘not just the same thing you’ve had before,'” Halkitis said.
He added that the shift away from the term ”booster,” which the CDC stopped using in 2023,also played a role. “From a psychological perspective,and from a health behavior perspective,the messaging was a lot more powerful,” he explained.
A Nationwide Trend
The increase in vaccination rates is not limited to New york. Almost every state has seen a rise in vaccinations, with older adults driving the trend. This widespread uptake is a testament to the growing recognition of the vaccine’s importance, particularly among those at higher risk.
As the nation moves forward, the continued emphasis on clear, effective messaging and targeted outreach to vulnerable populations will be crucial in maintaining this positive trajectory.
What’s Next?
With vaccination rates on the rise and hospitalizations declining, the focus now shifts to sustaining this momentum.public health officials are urging all eligible individuals,especially those in high-risk groups,to get vaccinated. The updated vaccine remains a critical tool in the fight against COVID-19,offering enhanced protection against the latest variants.
For more information on vaccination rates and COVID-19 trends, visit the CDC’s COVID Data Tracker.
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Stay informed and protect yourself and your loved ones. Check your local health department’s website for vaccination sites near you.
COVID-19 Hospitalizations and Deaths Decline on Long Island,but Vaccination Rates Lag
As the COVID-19 pandemic enters its fifth year,long Island is seeing a significant decline in hospitalizations and deaths compared to previous seasons. However, vaccination rates in Nassau and Suffolk counties continue to lag behind the rest of New York State, raising concerns about ongoing risks for vulnerable populations.
Hospitalizations and Deaths Drop Sharply
Hospitalizations for COVID-19 on Long Island peaked this season at 164 patients on Monday,according to the New york State department of Health. This number marks a stark contrast to previous winters, when hospitalizations soared to 661 on Jan. 3, 2024, and a staggering 2,254 on Jan. 11, 2022.Deaths from COVID-19 have also declined significantly. From Jan. 3, 2024, to Dec. 31, 2024, Long Island recorded 398 COVID-19-related deaths, compared to 657 deaths during the same period the previous year. This is a dramatic advancement from 2020, when nearly 5,300 people died from the virus on Long Island.
Dr. Leonard Krilov, an infectious disease consultant and former chairman of pediatrics at NYU Langone Hospital-Long island, attributes this decline to several factors. “The population has some degree of protection even if it’s not absolute,” he said. “Increased vaccination rates among older adults, milder strains of the virus, and prior infections all contribute to this trend.”
Vaccination Rates Lag in Nassau and Suffolk
Despite the overall decline in severe cases,vaccination rates in Nassau and Suffolk counties remain lower than the state average. According to New York State data, only 6.7% of Nassau residents and 6.6% of Suffolk residents have received the COVID-19 vaccine, compared to 9.7% statewide.
The national Immunization Survey does not provide county-level data, making it arduous to assess local vaccination trends accurately. Though, Dr. Krilov emphasized that the CDC’s data is more reliable for tracking vaccination levels.”It’s a more accurate, complete recording,” he said.
A Focused Approach to Vaccination
Health care providers are increasingly adopting a targeted approach to vaccination, prioritizing older adults and those with chronic conditions who are at higher risk for severe illness. “It’s more of a focused, targeted approach,” Dr. Krilov explained.
Dr. Perry Halkitis,dean of the Rutgers School of Public Health,noted that older adults are more likely to get vaccinated as they correctly perceive their higher risk. “Their immune systems are weaker,and they are more likely to be living with chronic diseases,” he said.For younger adults, the perception of risk is different.Dr. Aaron Glatt, chief of infectious diseases at Mount Sinai South Nassau, said many younger people are “agreeable with getting COVID.” He added, “For people at low risk, that’s not the end of the world. But people who are at high risk need to understand that this is still a potentially fatal disease.”
Key data at a Glance
| Metric | 2022-2023 | 2023-2024 | 2020 |
|—————————|———————|———————|———————|
| Peak Hospitalizations | 661 (Jan. 3, 2024) | 164 (Dec. 2024) | 2,254 (Jan. 11,2022)|
| COVID-19 Deaths | 657 | 398 | ~5,300 |
| Vaccination Rates (Nassau)| 6.7% | 6.7% | N/A |
| Vaccination Rates (Suffolk)| 6.6% | 6.6% | N/A |
The Road Ahead
While the decline in hospitalizations and deaths is encouraging, health officials urge caution. The virus remains a threat, particularly for older adults and those with underlying health conditions. Vaccination remains the most effective tool for preventing severe illness,and efforts to boost vaccination rates in Nassau and suffolk counties are critical.
As Dr. Krilov noted, “The population has some degree of protection, but it’s not absolute.” Continued vigilance and targeted vaccination efforts will be key to maintaining this progress and protecting the most vulnerable.
For the latest updates on COVID-19 vaccination rates and hospitalizations,visit the New York State Department of Health and the CDC’s National Immunization Survey.The Art of Hyperlinking in Journalism: building Credibility and Engaging Readers
In the digital age, journalism has evolved beyond static text. One of the most transformative tools in modern reporting is the humble hyperlink. Far more than a navigational aid,hyperlinks serve as a bridge between a story and its sources,offering readers the chance to explore deeper layers of information.As attribution hyperlinks [[2]]demonstrate, they not only reward curious readers but also help journalists and news organizations build credibility with increasingly skeptical audiences.
The Power of Hyperlinking in Journalism
Hyperlinking is more than a technical feature—it’s a citational practice. By embedding links to original sources, journalists can provide transparency and context, allowing readers to verify claims and dive into the data themselves. This practice is particularly crucial in an era where misinformation spreads rapidly.A case study on hyperlinking in journalism [[3]]highlights its importance in Canadian newsrooms. The study examined how news organizations covered an Oxfam report, focusing on their use of hyperlinks to cite sources.The findings revealed that hyperlinking not only enhances the credibility of a story but also fosters trust between journalists and their audiences.
Why Hyperlinking Matters
- Credibility: Hyperlinks allow readers to trace information back to its source, ensuring transparency.
- Engagement: They provide an interactive experience, encouraging readers to explore topics in greater depth.
- Trust: By linking to reputable sources, journalists can build trust with their audience.
As Robert Niles [[2]] aptly puts it, “Attribution hyperlinks provide readers with the chance to delve into original source information, at a deeper level than the writer provided in his or her article.”
Best Practices for Hyperlinking
To maximize the impact of hyperlinks,journalists should:
- Link to primary sources: Direct readers to original reports,studies,or official statements.
- Use descriptive anchor text: Ensure the linked text is relevant and informative.
- Avoid overloading: Too many links can overwhelm readers; prioritize quality over quantity.
A Case Study in Action
The Canadian case study [[3]]offers valuable insights. By analyzing how different newsrooms handled the Oxfam report, the study found that organizations that consistently linked to primary sources were perceived as more credible. This underscores the importance of hyperlinking as a journalistic best practice.
Key Takeaways
| Aspect | Importance |
|————————–|——————————————————————————-|
| Transparency | Hyperlinks allow readers to verify information, fostering trust. |
| Engagement | They create an interactive experience,encouraging deeper exploration. |
| Credibility | Linking to reputable sources enhances the journalist’s authority.|
Conclusion
hyperlinking is not just a technical tool—it’s a cornerstone of modern journalism. By embedding links to original sources, journalists can build credibility, engage readers, and foster trust. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, the thoughtful use of hyperlinks will remain essential for delivering high-quality, transparent reporting.For more insights into the evolving role of hyperlinks in journalism, explore the case study [[3]]and learn how leading newsrooms are leveraging this powerful tool.
The Art of Hyperlinking in Journalism: Building Credibility and Engaging Readers
In the digital age, journalism has evolved beyond static text. One of the most transformative tools in modern reporting is the humble hyperlink. Far more than a navigational aid, hyperlinks serve as a bridge between a story and its sources, offering readers the chance to explore deeper layers of details. As attribution hyperlinks demonstrate, they not only reward curious readers but also help journalists and news organizations build credibility with increasingly skeptical audiences.
The Power of Hyperlinking in Journalism
Hyperlinking is more than a technical feature—it’s a citational practice. By embedding links to original sources, journalists can provide transparency and context, allowing readers to verify claims and dive into the data themselves. This practice is particularly crucial in an era where misinformation spreads rapidly. A case study on hyperlinking in journalism highlights its importance in Canadian newsrooms. The study examined how news organizations covered an Oxfam report, finding that hyperlinks to primary sources considerably enhanced the credibility and depth of the reporting.
Enhancing Reader Engagement
Hyperlinks also play a vital role in engaging readers. By offering additional resources, related articles, or multimedia content, journalists can create a more immersive and interactive experience.For example, linking to a CDC report or a state health department’s data dashboard allows readers to explore the data behind a story, fostering a deeper understanding of the issues at hand.
Building Trust Through Transparency
In an age of declining trust in media, hyperlinking serves as a tool for accountability. By providing direct access to sources, journalists can demonstrate their commitment to accuracy and transparency. This practice not only builds trust with readers but also strengthens the overall integrity of the news organization.
Best Practices for Hyperlinking
- Link to Primary Sources: Always prioritize linking to original data, reports, or official statements. This ensures accuracy and credibility.
- Use Descriptive Anchor Text: Make hyperlinks meaningful by using descriptive text that indicates what the reader will find when they click.
- Avoid Overloading: While hyperlinks are valuable, too many can overwhelm readers. Use them strategically to enhance, not distract from, the narrative.
- Regularly Check Links: Ensure that all hyperlinks are functional and up-to-date to maintain the reliability of your content.
Conclusion
Hyperlinking is a cornerstone of modern journalism, offering a powerful way to build credibility, engage readers, and combat misinformation. By thoughtfully incorporating hyperlinks into their work, journalists can create richer, more transparent stories that resonate with their audiences. As the media landscape continues to evolve, the art of hyperlinking will remain an essential skill for reporters and news organizations alike.
For more insights into the role of hyperlinking in journalism, explore resources like the Online Journalism Review and studies on digital reporting practices.
