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The spread of the flu is increasing across Central New York, with Onondaga County reporting the highest number of infections at 60 cases during the week ending November 15. Oneida County followed with 19 cases, and Madison County reported three cases. Health experts anticipate a further rise in cases during and after the holiday season as people gather for celebrations.
According to the New York State Department of Health, respiratory infections, including flu, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), typically surge during the fall and winter months. The Department's latest Respiratory Viruses Surveillance Report showed 1,332 lab-confirmed flu cases statewide for the week ending November 1, 2025.
State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald emphasized the importance of vaccination, stating, "Flu, COVID, and RSV are vaccine-preventable diseases, and these vaccines are the best protection against serious illness or death." Vaccines are widely available at pharmacies, health clinics, and medical offices across the state.
To locate a flu shot clinic in your community, visit vaccines.gov. Health officials continue to urge the public to get vaccinated to prevent infection and reduce the risk of severe illness.