When does flu season end in NY? Here's why it's tough to say this year

David Robinson, New York State Team
·2 min read
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A recent resurgence of flu infections suggests New Yorkers should brace for an extended flu-season peak that could keep the virus spreading at high levels in coming weeks.

After flu cases appeared to wane following the holidays, infections held strong in January with a total of about 95,000 cases reported, state data show. By contrast, last year had a total of about 30,000 flu cases reported in January.

The flu rebound this season, as well as the continued spread of COVID-19 and RSV, prompted health officials to renew pleas for New Yorkers to get vaccinated against the respiratory viruses. Low vaccine uptake — in particular among older and vulnerable groups — have raised concerns that severe cases could strain health networks.

When does flu season end in NY?

In past years, pediatric deaths from the flu have largely been linked to those who are not vaccinated.
In past years, pediatric deaths from the flu have largely been linked to those who are not vaccinated.

Flu season generally spans form October to May, but pandemic-era impacts on infectious diseases have wreaked havoc on how and when viruses spread in recent years.

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Widespread mask wearing and social distancing efforts aimed at curbing COVID-19 played a major role in disrupting respiratory virus season, with New York flu cases hitting historic lows in 2021-22. But the end of mask mandates and remote learning contributed to a major flu bounce back last season, with an historic peak of about 53,000 cases in one week in December.

The current season has seen a lower one-week peak at about 33,000 cases in late December, but infections have averaged about 24,000 per week since, state data show.

During a media briefing in the Bronx, Gov. Kathy Hochul on Wednesday urged New Yorkers to get vaccinated against the flu as infections ticked up following Thanksgiving.
During a media briefing in the Bronx, Gov. Kathy Hochul on Wednesday urged New Yorkers to get vaccinated against the flu as infections ticked up following Thanksgiving.

What are COVID, flu vaccination rates in NY?

About 48% of adult New Yorkers got the flu vaccine as of January 20, the most recent federal data show. As for the updated COVID-19 vaccines, only about 14% of that same group got the latest shot.

State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald recently urged all New Yorkers ages 60 and older to get vaccinated against flu, COVID-19 and RSV as soon as possible.

“These immunizations can provide excellent protection against severe illness and hospitalization, they can be administered at your local pharmacy, and are covered by insurance, including Medicaid,” he added in a statement.

This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: When does flu season end in NY? Here's why it's tough to say this year