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This year’s flu outbreak is one of the worst in 10 years, according to public health experts. In New York State, flu cases are skyrocketing. During last year’s entire flu season, only 4,400 cases were reported. So far this season, there have been more than 15,000 — an increase of close to 250%. Hospitalizations are up 169% from the same period last year. “The Flu is widespread in New York State and we are seeing confirmed cases in and around our communities,” said Vickie Swinehart, Director of the Seneca County Health Department. “If you have not yet been vaccinated, it is not too late” says Swinehart.
It is recommended for everyone six months of age and older to be vaccinated against the flu. The flu vaccine can help protect you from getting the flu and it can also help protect those around you who may not be able to receive the vaccine. Flu viruses constantly change, so vaccines are updated from one season to the next to protect against the most recent and most commonly circulating viruses. Annual vaccination is very important because a person’s immune protection from the flu vaccine declines over time.
Anyone, even healthy people, can get sick from the flu and it can be serious, leading to hospitalization and sometimes even death. According to the New York State Department of Health, each year in the United States, more than 23,600 people die from the flu. Getting a flu vaccine is more convenient than ever before. Vaccines are available at your doctor’s office or local health department and even at retail pharmacies. Many employers, schools, colleges and universities are also offering flu vaccines.
Local health officials are urging those who can be vaccinated to get their vaccine and to practice good hand hygiene and everyday preventive actions to prevent the spread of flu. Everyday preventive actions that we can do to help prevent the spread of flu include staying home when ill with fever and covering your mouth and nose while sneezing and coughing.
For more information about the flu and how to get vaccinated call the Seneca County Health Department at (315) 539-1920 or your healthcare provider or visit the New York State Department of Health Web site at www.health.ny.gov/immunization.