Overview
- The state reported 71,123 lab-confirmed infections for the week ending Dec. 20, the highest single-week total since flu became reportable in 2004.
- Influenza hospitalizations jumped 63% from the prior week to 3,666, and officials said hospitals are being closely monitored and are managing for now.
- New York’s designation of influenza as “prevalent” remains in effect, requiring unvaccinated health care workers to wear masks around patients and residents.
- An early H3N2-driven wave is propelling the surge, with mutations that may reduce protection against infection while vaccination still lowers the risk of hospitalization.
- Authorities advise flu shots, prompt antiviral use within 48 hours for high-risk patients, and staying home when ill, noting city schools saw lower attendance and state data show steadier COVID hospitalizations and smaller RSV increases.