Flu Cases in NYC Reach 4-Year High as CDC Reports Nationwide Spike
What to Know
- State and local health officials are reporting a new wave of influenza cases that is entering its seventh week of widespread activity.
- In New York City, over 24,000 cases of influenza were reported during the week ending in Jan. 24, a four percent increase from the previous week.
- Health officials are asking people to get stay protected from severe illness by getting vaccinated against the flu as “current reported cases are higher than during peaks in previous years.”
New York City is experiencing a surge in flu cases, with over 24,000 reported cases during the week ending in Jan. 25, according to a NYC Health surveillance report. This represents a 4% increase from the previous week and a 4-year high.
Nationwide Spike
At least 30 states are reporting “very high” flu activity levels, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC website tracks nationwide flu data trends, which shows that the peak flu activity in the U.S. historically occurs in the month of February, followed by December and January.
New York City’s Flu Season
The last time New York reported over 50,000 influenza cases was in the last two weeks of December 2022, when COVID-19 rates spiked at the same time as the flu and RSV. This season, the city has reported 71 outbreaks at long-term facilities, 13 of which were reported during the fourth week of January.
Symptoms and Vaccination
Flu symptoms usually start to show between one to four days after a person is exposed to the virus. Typical symptoms include fever, fatigue, chills, body aches, cough, runny or stuffy nose, and sore throat. The city’s Health Department is urging New Yorkers to get vaccinated against the flu, stating that the flu season is “in full force.”
Flu season is in full force in NYC.
Cases continue to increase, and current reported cases are higher than during peaks in previous years.
Make sure you’re protected from severe illness! If you still need your flu vaccine, make an appointment today: https://t.co/67YJ8aNULm pic.twitter.com/GCGaNGKCQO
Expert’s Opinion
Caitlin Rivers, an epidemiologist at the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security, suggested to NBC News that it may take another three months before the flu starts to quiet down.
Conclusion
The recent surge in flu cases in New York City and nationwide highlights the importance of getting vaccinated against the flu. As the flu season is expected to continue for several more months, it is crucial for individuals to take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their loved ones from severe illness.
FAQs
Q: What is the current flu situation in New York City?
A: As of Jan. 25, there were over 24,000 reported flu cases in New York City, a 4% increase from the previous week and a 4-year high.
Q: How many states are reporting “very high” flu activity levels?
A: At least 30 states are reporting “very high” flu activity levels, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Q: What are the typical symptoms of the flu?
A: Typical symptoms of the flu include fever, fatigue, chills, body aches, cough, runny or stuffy nose, and sore throat.
Q: How can I protect myself from severe illness?
A: Get vaccinated against the flu and take necessary precautions to prevent the spread of the virus.
