Photo: staticnak1983 / E+ / Getty Images
The New York State Department of Health announced that the flu is no longer prevalent in the state, leading to the lifting of the mask mandate for healthcare workers who are not vaccinated against the virus. Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald declared the end of the flu season on Monday (April 28), citing a decline in influenza cases across the state.
The decision comes after Albany County reported the highest number of flu cases in the region with 50 cases during the week ending April 19. Saratoga and Washington counties followed with 43 and 31 cases, respectively. Despite the decline, Dr. McDonald advised residents to continue taking precautions, such as practicing good hand hygiene and staying home when sick, to prevent the spread of illness.
The masking requirement, which was implemented on December 18, 2024, during the height of flu season, required healthcare workers in hospitals, nursing homes, and adult care facilities to wear masks if they were not vaccinated against the flu. The mandate was part of efforts to curb the spread of influenza, which resulted in over 25,000 hospitalizations during the 2023-24 season.
As the flu season winds down, health officials continue to recommend flu vaccinations for everyone aged six months and older, as it remains the best method to protect against the virus and reduce the severity of symptoms.
According to the New York State Department of Health, the lifting of the mask mandate marks a significant step as the state transitions out of flu season. However, the department emphasizes the importance of remaining vigilant and maintaining preventive measures to safeguard public health.