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The post-holiday season has seen a significant rise in flu cases across New York's Capital Region. During the week ending January 11, Saratoga County reported the highest number of infections with 172 cases, followed closely by Albany County with 170 and Schenectady County with 119. Since the start of the flu season in October, New York State has recorded over 128,000 confirmed cases.
According to the Daily Gazette, hospitals in the region are experiencing an increase in patients with seasonal illnesses, leading to emergency department diversions and visitation restrictions. The New York State Department of Health reported a 6% increase in flu cases statewide for the week ending January 11, with a total of 32,218 cases.
Dr. Philip Heavner, Chief Medical Officer at Guthrie Cortland Medical Center, noted that about half of the flu tests conducted recently returned positive results, marking a 20% increase from the previous week. He emphasized the importance of flu vaccines to prevent hospitalizations and advised isolating symptomatic individuals at home.
The New York State Department of Health has launched a campaign encouraging residents to get vaccinated against flu, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald highlighted the importance of vaccines, especially for children and older adults, who are at greater risk of serious complications.