Photo: Harbucks / iStock / Getty Images
Central New York is experiencing a significant surge in flu cases, with Onondaga County reporting the highest number of cases at 686 during the week ending December 27. Oneida County followed with 481 cases, and Oswego County reported 432 cases. Since the start of the flu season in October, there have been 239,000 flu cases statewide, and hospitalizations are on the rise. The New York State Department of Health announced that the state is seeing the highest number of flu hospitalizations recorded in a single week, with a total of 4,546 hospitalizations, nearly 1,000 more than the previous week.
State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald emphasized the importance of getting a flu shot, stating, "There is still time to get a flu shot, and remember, flu can be treated with antiviral medication if started within 48 hours of symptom onset and your doctor deems appropriate." The flu vaccine is widely available for those six months and older, and it remains the best protection against serious illness and death from the flu.
The flu season typically peaks in January, and the current surge underscores the importance of vaccination and preventive measures. Anyone looking to get vaccinated can find a clinic by visiting vaccines.gov.