New York State health officials report that influenza activity has climbed sharply heading into the holidays—reaching the highest number of lab-confirmed flu cases ever recorded in a standard seven-day reporting period since the state began requiring flu to be reported in 2004.
The key numbers (week ending Dec. 20, 2025)
- 71,123 flu cases were reported in that one-week stretch—a new record for New York.
- Officials said this represented a 38% increase from the prior week.
- Flu-related hospitalizations rose 63% statewide, increasing to 3,666 from 2,251 the week before.
Total cases so far this season
State officials also noted 189,312 positive flu cases have been reported to date in New York. They added that flu activity has been rising in other parts of the U.S. this year as well.
Why this matters now: the “tripledemic” concern
Public health leaders have been warning about a heavy respiratory virus season during the winter months, with influenza, RSV, and COVID circulating at the same time—especially as people gather indoors and travel for holidays.
What “flu prevalent” means in New York
In December, the state designated flu as “prevalent.” In practical terms, this triggers specific infection-control requirements in health care settings—most notably that unvaccinated health care personnel must wear masks around patients and residents.
What you can do to lower your risk (and protect others)
Health officials emphasized that vaccination remains the best single step to reduce flu risk—and that it’s not too late to get a flu shot.
They also recommended everyday prevention basics:
- Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds (or use alcohol-based sanitizer when soap/water aren’t available).
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Limit close contact with people who are sick.
- Stay home if you’re sick.
- Cover coughs/sneezes with a tissue and throw it away.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
If you’re high-risk: treatment works best early
Officials also stressed that flu is treatable for high-risk people with antiviral medication, especially when started within 48 hours of symptoms. If you’re older, pregnant, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions, it’s worth contacting a clinician quickly if flu is suspected.
This is general health information, not medical advice. If you’re worried about symptoms, exposure, or your risk level, check in with a licensed healthcare professional.
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