Drastic rise in influenza across New York, Governor orders immediate action
Staff Writer |
Governor Andrew M. Cuomo called on all New Yorkers six months of age and over who have not yet received a flu shot to get vaccinated as soon as possible.
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According to the Department of Health, cases of influenza rose by 54 percent and new cases were diagnosed in all counties of the state over the past week.
In addition, 1,606 New Yorkers have been hospitalized with laboratory-confirmed influenza, the highest weekly number since Department of Health reporting began in 2004.
"With flu cases on the rise, New Yorkers should take steps to get vaccinated and protect themselves and their loved ones," Governor Cuomo said.
"I am directing the Department of Health to work with local providers to help protect our communities from this flu outbreak, and I urge all New Yorkers to visit local health centers and get vaccinated as soon as possible."
For the last six weeks, influenza has been geographically widespread across New York. As of January 13th, 17,362 laboratory-confirmed cases of influenza have been reported and 5,267 people have been hospitalized with influenza in New York State this season.
In addition to calling on all New Yorkers to get vaccinated, Governor Cuomo directed the Department of Health to take the following actions:
Continue surveillance of hospitals statewide on bed capacity and supply of vaccines and antiviral medications;
Coordinate with Greater New York Hospital Association, Healthcare Association of New York State, and the Community Health Care Association of New York State to support hospitals on capacity issues and encourage them to review their surge plans to expand capacity;
Ensure that New York continues to have an adequate supply of flu vaccine and remaining in close communication with the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) regarding vaccine availability. CDC is currently reporting adequate supplies of flu vaccine nationwide; and
Promote the usage of HealthMap Vaccine Finder, developed by Google and supported by the CDC, a free and helpful online service that allows users to search for locations offering immunizations. ■
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