ROCHESTER, N.Y. — The New York State Department of Health (DOH) announced on Friday that the state is dealing with a record-setting high of flu hospitalizations, occurring in a one-week timeframe.
This comes as reports say almost 1,000 more hospitalizations have happened during this most recent seven-day period than last week. It adds to a total of 4,546 reported hospitalizations, according to current data.
“We are having a more severe flu season than prior years, almost 1,000 more people were admitted to a hospital during this most recent seven-day period compared to the prior week,” said State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald.
Just last month, it was declared by the state DOH that the flu is especially prevalent in New York State. Reports show that flu cases have increased in recent years.
In Monroe County, local health officials report a sharp, early surge in flu cases, up more than 200% compared to last year.
At Strong Memorial Hospital, nearly 54 patients are currently admitted with severe flu complications. With kids heading back to school soon, experts urge vaccination and caution, especially in crowded settings.
“No question that whenever you put a large number of kids, especially younger kids who don’t know how to cover their cough effectively back in a community setting, there’s likely to be an uptick in cases that we are going to see,” said Dr. Jennifer Nayak from University of Rochester Medicine.
Nayak says parents should talk to their kids about covering their nose and mouth and stress the importance of handwashing.
Even though the vaccine is not a good match this year, Nayak still recommends getting a flu shot to decrease the likelihood or getting seriously ill.
If you’re having flu like systems, Nayak also recommends getting tested and treated. To find the right care and place for you, visit UR Medicine’s “Get Care Now,” website here.
Flu season typically peaks in January. For more information on the flu in New York, visit the department’s website here.
Not sure of your symptoms? Check out UR Medicine’s guide here for determining whether symptoms are a cold, flu or RSV.
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