Since our post from January 19th, flu cases in NY have more than doubled!

  • Influenza activity level was categorized as geographically widespread
  • This is the ninth consecutive week that widespread activity has been reported.
  • There were 15,753 laboratory-confirmed influenza reports, a 35% increase over last week.
  • Of the 4,015 specimens submitted to WHO/NREVSS laboratories, 1,044 (26%) were positive for influenza.
  • Of the 290 specimens tested at Wadsworth Center, 195 were positive for influenza. 31 were Influenza A (H1),
    142 were influenza A (H3), 21 were influenza B (Yamagata) and 1 was influenza B (Victoria)
  • Reports of percent of patient visits for influenza-like illness (ILI3) from ILINet providers was 11.43%, which is above the
    regional baseline of 3.10%

KEEP TRACK OF THE CURRENT CASES OF REPORTED FLU:

https://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/influenza/surveillance

What can you do to help protect yourself from getting AND spreading the flu?

  1. Unlike some viruses, influenza is easily killed by soap and hot water.
  2. Wash your hands often with soap and hot water for at least 20 seconds to protect yourself from germs and avoid spreading them to others.
  3. Carry an alcohol-based hand sanitizer to use when soap and water are not available. Choose a product with at least 60 percent alcohol.
  4. Do not cough or sneeze into your hands. Instead, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue. 
  5. REMEMBER – the FLU virus thrives in COLD weather!
  6. If you have been diagnosed with the flu by your doctor… STAY HOME! People with the flu are infectious for up to 7 days after symptoms begin. We are aware that everyone has to work, and you can’t afford to miss a day, but this particular outbreak of the flu is horrible and can be deadly! 

To Read More information about the prevention of the flu, and other valuable information please visit: https://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/influenza/seasonal/