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Flu cases in New York's Capital Region are showing a decline, according to new data from the New York State Department of Health. For the week ending Friday (February 28), Albany County reported 73 flu cases, the highest in the region, followed by Saratoga County with 60 and Schenectady County with 57. This marks a decrease from previous weeks, where Albany County had reported 92 cases for the week ending February 14.
The decline follows a brief surge in flu cases earlier in the season, particularly due to Influenza B, a strain that often appears later in the flu season. Despite the recent drop, the flu season has been challenging, with over 370,000 confirmed cases across New York since October. Nationally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates at least 18 million flu illnesses, 230,000 hospitalizations, and about 9,300 deaths, including 32 children, so far this season.
Health officials remain cautious, with Dr. William Schaffner, an infectious disease specialist, warning that the flu season may not be over yet. "We've had other seasons where we've had a peak, it's gone down, but we've nonetheless had a prolonged season," Schaffner said. New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald described this as "a long, hard flu season," urging residents to stay vigilant.
The dominant strain this season, H3N2, has been responsible for severe illness, especially in older adults. More than 90% of the H3N2 infections analyzed were found to be a new variant, differing from the strain targeted by this year's flu shots. Despite this, health officials continue to recommend flu vaccinations for everyone six months and older, emphasizing the importance for young children, pregnant women, and those with chronic health conditions. Residents can find a nearby clinic for flu shots by visiting vaccines.gov.