New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald has declared influenza to be prevalent throughout New York, requiring health care facilities and agencies to ensure that personnel who have not received the current season’s flu vaccine wear masks in areas where patients and residents are present.
“The declaration that flu is prevalent across the state means health care facilities and agencies must require that personnel who are not vaccinated against the flu wear a mask to avoid exposing patients and residents to the flu virus,” said Dr. McDonald. “The flu vaccine is the best way to protect against infection and lessens symptoms if you get the flu. I encourage everyone 6 months and older to get a flu shot, and it’s not too late to protect yourself and your loved ones.”
According to state regulations, unvaccinated staff at health care or residential care settings regulated by the Department of Health must wear surgical or procedure masks during periods when influenza is declared prevalent. Exceptions are made for workers accompanying patients in community settings, providing speech therapy services, or communicating with people who lip read.
Recent data from the Department show that as of November 22, there have been 17,783 positive flu cases reported this season across all 62 counties in New York State. Outside of New York City, lab-confirmed cases rose by 114% compared with the previous week; in New York City itself, cases increased by 119%. Hospitalizations statewide due to influenza also nearly doubled over one week.
A chart showing trends in hospitalizations for influenza, COVID-19, and RSV can be accessed on the Department’s website.
On November 24, officials released a statement urging residents to receive the seasonal flu vaccine for 2025-2026 following reports of pediatric deaths associated with influenza during last year’s season.
Current information about local and statewide influenza activity is available through resources such as Flu Tracker and Respiratory Surveillance Report on the Department’s site.
This week marks National Influenza Vaccination Week (December 1–5), highlighting ongoing risks from circulating viruses and emphasizing that it remains worthwhile for individuals six months of age or older to receive their vaccination. Vaccines are available at pharmacies, clinics, doctors’ offices, and participating pharmacies without a prescription for those ages two years or older; children as young as six months may be vaccinated at their provider’s office.
Antiviral medications like Tamiflu can help treat influenza if given early after symptom onset. Preventive measures—including vaccination—are promoted by public education campaigns on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and X (Twitter).
For further details about seasonal influenza in New York State or where to obtain vaccines locally, visit the Department’s dedicated flu website.
