The New York State Department of Health is encouraging residents, including children and adolescents, to receive the 2025-2026 seasonal influenza vaccine. This call comes after the state recorded 27 pediatric deaths associated with influenza during the 2024-2025 season, which is the highest number reported in a single flu season by the department.
Officials recommend that everyone aged six months and older get vaccinated against the flu. The vaccine is widely available at pharmacies and health care providers throughout New York.
Infants younger than six months are not eligible for the flu vaccine but are at higher risk for severe complications from influenza. To protect these infants, health authorities advise that all household members and caregivers be vaccinated.
“Last year’s flu season, we lost 27 of our children to the flu, more than any year in our memory,” said State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald. “We are already seeing a significant increase in cases of flu throughout the state. The flu vaccine is the best protection for children, keep in mind, infants less than 6 months are vulnerable and not able to be immunized, so very important all of those around them are up to date with the vaccine.”
The department emphasizes that vaccination remains an effective measure to prevent hospitalization and serious illness due to influenza. For individuals ages two and older, vaccines can be obtained at healthcare providers or participating pharmacies without a prescription. Children as young as six months can receive vaccinations at their provider’s office.
Further information about the seasonal flu vaccine and vaccine safety is available online.
