N.Y. Flu Season Starts Early

The New York State Department of Health declared influenza prevalent earlier this week. This official announcement marks the start of the flu season for the state. Health data shows the virus is circulating well before the usual calendar schedule.

In most years, state officials wait until mid-November to declare the virus prevalent. The declaration typically happens when hospitalizations and case numbers reach a specific threshold. This year, that threshold was reached on October 17.

According to the state’s Seasonal Respiratory Virus Dashboard, more than 3,500 flu cases were reported statewide for the week ending October 17. The same report listed more than 230 hospitalizations. These figures represent a sharp increase in activity compared to recent years.

Branden Simone, the director of infection prevention at Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center, said the hospital is seeing flu activity earlier than usual. He noted that the state’s declaration came 53 days earlier than last year. That is also 43 days earlier than the average time to reach prevalence levels.

Simone said the hospital has recorded 15 flu cases so far. This number is higher than what the facility typically sees at this point in the season. He expects the numbers to grow quickly as the season progresses.

Simone identified two main factors behind the early start. He pointed to weather patterns and the timing of vaccination efforts. He said the virus is spreading before public health officials have had time to distribute vaccines to large portions of the population. This may leave vulnerable people exposed earlier than usual.

Health officials recommend frequent hand washing and staying home if symptoms appear. Simone emphasized that getting vaccinated is the most important step people can take right now. He noted that the vaccine is available locally at pharmacies and primary care offices, often at no charge.