NEW YORK (PIX11) – Tis’ the season, and we are not referring to Christmas this time.
Flu cases are rising across New York State, with a significant surge in New York City.
Hospitalizations In New York City are up 48%, according to the latest data from the state health department.
Recommendations to prevent getting sick include avoiding crowded places, but with the New Year’s celebration just days away, experts say the key is to get vaccinated.
Seasonal illness also affects industries such as Broadway.
The Broadway Classic “Gypsy” canceled shows on Monday, Wednesday, and today due to illness within the company. With temperatures dropping and in the midst of the holiday season, flu cases in New York City are up 72%.
“My wife isn’t doing very well and reminded us as well. We are wearing masks, and she went to the doctor, and she went to the doctor today to see if she had any flu or covid,” said Will Sloan.
Luckily, it was neither.
However, that wasn’t the case for the 399 people who were hospitalized in the Big Apple the week of December 14 due to influenza.
According to the state health department, this number increased from 270 the previous week. Medical experts say more people will likely get sick after the Christmas holiday due to traveling and gatherings.
“I have seen case of flu rising also seen cases of whopping cough rise here in NYC; that’s another vaccine tetanus, make sure you have another tetanus vaccine,” said Will Banks, a Nurse practitioner at Mount Sinai.
“If you are sick try to take the precautions you can, wash your hands, wear a mask,” added Banks.
Some New Yorkers told PIX11 that they are practicing good hygiene and avoiding people showing flu-like symptoms, such as fever, coughing, and body aches.
“I wash my hands 24/7 every day, use hand sanitizer, and occasionally wear a mask,’ said Leyla Cat.
NY State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald is sending this message, “If you haven’t had the flu vaccine ready, it is a good time to take care of that.”
Ivelise Ramos has not gotten it yet but says she plans to. “Well, soon because everyone at work is out because of the season,’ said Ramos.
RSV is a respiratory virus that is also spreading.
A vaccine is recommended for people over 60 and babies under one-year-old.
