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The spread of the flu virus remains low in New York's Capital Region, according to recent data. The county with the highest number of cases in the latest update was Saratoga County with five, followed by Rensselaer, Schenectady, and Albany counties with three each. Warren County reported two infections. Despite the low numbers, health officials are urging residents to get their flu shots in anticipation of a potential surge during the winter months.
The New York State Department of Health has activated its weekly flu reports and Flu Tracker website, providing a snapshot of lab-confirmed cases and hospitalizations. The data can be viewed by geographic location and used to track trends over time. State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald encourages all New Yorkers aged six months and older to get vaccinated against the flu. "This annual vaccine - developed to target the strains that emerge each year to ensure utmost effectiveness - is safe, effective and readily available across New York," McDonald said in a press release.
Flu vaccines are available at various locations, including pharmacies, health clinics, and physician's offices across the state. Saratoga County Department of Health also provides immunizations to children who do not have a primary care provider or insurance. A list of immunization sites can be found at vaccines.gov.