NYC COVID Hospitalizations Rising: How to Protect Yourself

NYC COVID Hospitalizations Rise as Fall Respiratory Season Begins

City and state health officials are pressing New Yorkers to get vaccinated against COVID-19, influenza, and RSV as virus seasons get underway. According to state data, the 500-plus hospital admissions recorded across the five boroughs during the first week of September represent the highest weekly count since early October of the previous year. State records also show 12 COVID-related deaths during that same initial week of September.

Confirmed COVID cases are ticking up alongside hospitalizations, though overall virus levels remain lower than in past seasons, according to state data. Wastewater surveillance tracking SARS-CoV-2 concentrations in untreated sewage across New York State shows a similar upward trajectory. As of September 9, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimated that COVID-19 infections were increasing or likely increasing across 35 states.

Updated Vaccine Guidance and Eligibility Standards

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved updated COVID vaccines in late August engineered to target the JN.1-lineage XFG variant, which became the dominant strain nationwide in late summer. On September 10, the New York State Department of Health and the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene released a joint endorsement supporting wider availability, even though the FDA’s specific recommendations were for people with underlying health conditions or adults over 65.

The joint guidance recommends updated COVID shots for all adults, including pregnant individuals, alongside children between 6 months and 2 years old, older children with high-risk health conditions, and any children whose parents want them vaccinated. Major medical groups, including the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Academy of Family Physicians, backed these recommendations after reviewing nearly 300 peer-reviewed studies. Officials also recommend annual flu shots for everyone over 6 months old and RSV vaccination for older adults and infants.

Pharmacy Access and Insurance Coverage for Fall Immunizations

City health officials noted that the federal Vaccines for Children Program, as well as public and private insurance plans, continue to cover recommended immunizations, following the confusion that resulted from shifts in federal guidance last year. For residents seeking a shot at major pharmacies, requirements vary slightly by provider.

CVS’s online scheduler does not ask patients about underlying medical conditions. Walgreens asks patients to confirm they are at high risk for severe COVID-19, though pharmacies are allowing patients to self-attest rather than requiring a prescription or proof, according to statements given to the New York Times. CVS noted it is only requiring prescriptions in Louisiana. New Yorkers can locate local providers using the city’s official provider map.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is currently recommended to get the updated COVID-19 vaccine in New York?

City and state health guidelines recommend updated COVID shots for all adults—including pregnant individuals—as well as children between 6 months and 2 years old, older children with high-risk health conditions, and any children whose parents want them protected.

Are the fall vaccines covered by insurance?

Yes. City health officials report that the recommended immunizations are covered by public and private insurance plans, as well as the federal Vaccines for Children Program.

Where can New Yorkers find a vaccination site?

Residents can look up local vaccine providers using the New York City online map of vaccine providers, or check scheduling tools at major pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens.

What respiratory viruses are currently increasing in New York City?

State and city data show increases in COVID-19 hospitalizations, confirmed cases, and emergency department visits for RSV, while flu emergency department visits remain flat.