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The New York State Department of Health has declared that the flu is no longer prevalent in the state, marking the end of the 2024-25 influenza season. This announcement, made by State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald, lifts the masking requirement for health care workers who are not vaccinated against the flu. The mandate had been in place since December 18, 2024, when the flu was officially declared prevalent in New York.
Dr. McDonald stated, "As influenza season winds down and the flu virus is no longer prevalent in New York, we are lifting the longstanding masking requirement for health care workers in hospitals, nursing homes, and adult care facilities who chose not to get their annual flu shot." However, he emphasized the importance of continuing to take precautions, such as practicing good hand hygiene and staying home if feeling unwell, to prevent the spread of illness.
During the week ending April 19, Onondaga County reported the highest number of flu cases in the region with 230, followed by Oneida County with 173 cases and Madison County with 46 cases. Despite the decline in flu cases, the New York State Department of Health continues to recommend that people take preventive measures to avoid getting sick.
According to the New York State Department of Health, the decision to lift the mask mandate aligns with the decreasing number of flu cases across the state. Spectrum Local News also reported that health care facilities are no longer required to enforce mask-wearing in areas where patients and residents are present. WKTV highlighted that this announcement coincides with National Influenza Vaccination Awareness Week, emphasizing the importance of vaccination.