NEW YORK — Gov. Kathy Hochul on Wednesday updated New Yorkers on the state’s progress in fighting COVID-19 as concerns about the flu and RSV mount.
Hochul also updated New Yorkers on the efforts for the winterurging people to take proven prevention measures to protect themselves from RSV, influenza and COVID-19 and reduce patient burden on local hospitals.
“New Yorkers cannot be satisfied with our fight against the triple threat of COVID-19, RSV and influenza, we must use the resources at our disposal to come out of this winter season healthy and happy,” Governor Hochul said. . “We should all celebrate the holidays by taking preventative measures, getting tested and vaccinated, and talking to a doctor if you feel unwell. Let’s make sure we stay on guard against these diseases and continue to protect each other, especially our most vulnerable.”
This week, the New York State Department of Health issued a new relationship showing a 76% week-over-week increase in laboratory-confirmed flu cases across New York City and a 67% week-over-week increase in hospitalizations.
Influenza cases have now been reported in all 62 counties of the state, highlighting the need for New Yorkers to take measures and precautions that reduce the risk of serious illnesses for children and adults.
“Our message is simple but urgent: Get vaccinated today,” said New York State Health Commissioner Dr. Mary T. Bassett. “We have highly effective and safe vaccines for both influenza and COVID-19. The vaccine for COVID-19 is the new bivalent vaccine, which for the first time adapts to the circulating variants we have. If you haven’t received the bivalent vaccine, that’s what you should be receiving. I urge all New Yorkers who have not yet been vaccinated to get vaccinated as soon as possible to protect themselves, their loved ones and their community.”
Governor Hochul earlier launched a public awareness campaign in which New York State Health Commissioner Dr. Mary T. Bassett spoke directly to New Yorkers about three viruses: RSV, influenza and COVID-19, now circulating in the state with similar symptoms and potentially capable to cause serious disease.
For information on flu vaccination clinics, contact with your local health department or click here.
