New York is facing one of its worst flu seasons ever.
Amid a nationwide spike in seasonal cases, the Empire State recorded a new high in single-week reports in the week before Christmas. According to state health officials, more than 71,000 cases of the flu were reported during December 14-20.
The mid-December spike marks a 38% increase in weekly cases over the previous week.
“We are seeing the highest number of flu cases ever recorded in a single week in New York State,” State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said. “We are closely reviewing hospital bed capacity data to better understand hospitalization trends and to guide any necessary response related to impacts from respiratory viral infections.”
The state’s flu data tracking only goes back to 2004.
Hospitalizations related to the flu are also on the rise. Officials said the number of people admitted to the hospital rose by 63% over the previous week. Almost 3,700 people were in the hospital that week.
The spike in cases may not ease for some time; officials say peak flu season is typically in January.
Health officials stress it’s not too late in the season to get your flu shot.
State health officials shared “simple preventive actions” to take against the spread of the flu:
- Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Stay home when sick.
- Cover cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.