The New York State Department of Health has announced the launch of its updated Respiratory Surveillance Report, which now includes data on flu, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). This expansion aims to provide a more comprehensive overview of respiratory illness trends across the state. The report tracks cases, hospitalizations, pediatric deaths, and outbreaks in both long-term and acute care facilities.
Alongside this update, the Department has reactivated its Flu Tracker dashboard. The tool allows users to view laboratory-confirmed cases and hospitalizations related to influenza by geographic area and over time.
“As we head into the fall and winter seasons, when respiratory infections typically surge, you can now follow the data regarding flu, COVID and RSV along with us,” said State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald. “Flu, COVID and RSV are vaccine preventable diseases and these vaccines are the best protection against serious illness or death.”
According to the most recent Respiratory Viruses Surveillance Report for the week ending November 1, 2025, there were 1,332 lab-confirmed flu cases, 2,141 COVID-19 cases, and 734 RSV cases reported statewide. Hospitalizations included 72 people for flu, 298 for COVID-19, and 53 for RSV. Both flu and RSV numbers increased compared to the previous week.
Health officials note that while current case numbers remain low as of early November, infection rates typically rise during late fall and winter months due to more indoor gatherings.
Both resources—the expanded surveillance report and Flu Tracker—are available on the Department’s Respiratory Viruses webpage. The site also provides information about prevention measures and reporting requirements.
The addition of COVID-19 and RSV data reflects ongoing efforts by health authorities to keep residents informed about public health conditions relevant to them. Other regular reports from the Department include updates on global health issues as well as mosquito-borne diseases.
Symptoms for flu, COVID-19, and RSV often overlap in their initial stages. Vaccination is recommended as an effective way to prevent infection or severe illness among children, adults, older individuals or those with underlying conditions. Vaccines are accessible at pharmacies, clinics and medical offices throughout New York State.
Officials recommend additional precautions such as wearing masks around others if experiencing symptoms or living with high-risk individuals—including young children under five years old or those with chronic health problems.
To further raise awareness about respiratory illnesses and vaccination importance among New Yorkers statewide, updates are also shared via Instagram,X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, in addition to official online resources.
