As the holiday season ramps up, New York is facing a surge in flu cases, prompting a public health response focused on preventative measures.
Rising Cases and a New Campaign
Flu cases continue to rise across New York state. In response, the city health department has launched a $1 million “Don’t Miss Out” campaign, leveraging the concept of FOMO – fear of missing out – to encourage residents to take precautions against the virus.
The campaign emphasizes vaccination, alongside standard preventative measures like frequent hand-washing, covering coughs and sneezes, wearing masks, and cleaning surfaces.
A Variant and Vaccine Effectiveness
Public health experts are concerned this flu season could be particularly severe. A circulating flu variant carries mutations that may reduce its sensitivity to vaccine-induced immunity, according to Andy Pekosz, a virologist at Johns Hopkins University’s Bloomberg School of Public Health.
However, Pekosz emphasized that the flu vaccine is still expected to provide protection against severe illness and hospitalization, and to be more effective against other circulating strains.
Data from the state Department of Health shows confirmed flu cases increased by 29% between the last week of November and the first week of December. Hospitalizations due to the flu also saw a significant jump, rising 75% during the same period, with approximately 1,400 New Yorkers hospitalized the first week of December.
What to Do If You Get Sick
Dr. Bernard Camins, medical director for infection prevention at Mount Sinai Health System, noted that flu season arrived earlier in New York this year than last. He anticipates the peak of the season will likely occur after the holidays.
Common flu symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, fatigue, and body aches, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Individuals experiencing these symptoms should stay home from work or school until their fever subsides.
Dr. Camins recommends wearing a mask when respiratory viruses are circulating, particularly if you are experiencing symptoms, even if you are unsure whether it’s the flu, a cold, RSV, or COVID-19.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I think I have the flu?
Anyone who gets sick should stay home from work or school until they no longer have a fever. It’s also a good idea to wear a mask, and to see a doctor within 48 hours of getting sick to get diagnosed and potentially receive antiviral medication.
Is the flu vaccine still recommended, even with the new variant?
Yes, the flu vaccine is still recommended. While a circulating variant may be less sensitive to vaccine-induced immunity, the vaccine is expected to help prevent severe disease and hospitalization, and provide robust protection against other strains.
What can I do to protect my household if someone gets sick?
Frequent hand-washing is key, especially for the caretaker. Staying home when sick and wearing a mask can also help prevent the spread of the virus, even in close quarters like New York City apartments.
How are you planning to protect yourself and your loved ones this flu season?
