With the latest reports on flu case numbers from the New York State Department of Health, it’s official: the respiratory virus season is here! Numbers tallied for the first week of December show flu on the rise— 57 percent higher in Putnam County than the previous week and 29 percent higher in New York State than the previous week. In Putnam, RSV cases held steady from the previous week and COVID cases increased 45 percent. In comparison, New York State numbers showed a 35 percent increase in RSV and a 15 percent increase in COVID cases. These numbers fluctuate and are updated weekly on  the health department’s respiratory virus dashboard. 

When making the announcement that flu was prevalent across the 62 New York counties, the State Health Commissioner James McDonald, MD, encouraged residents 6 months and older to get the flu shot, saying it was not too late to protect oneself and one’s family. Young children, pregnant women, people with certain chronic medical conditions and those ages 65 and older are most at risk for developing serious complications from the flu. During the 2024-2025 flu season last year, the state health department reported 27 deaths in children under 18 years of age. Of these, 78 percent were unvaccinated, 19 percent were ineligible for vaccination and 4 were vaccinated.

The Putnam County Department of Health and the American Academy of Pediatrics also encourage flu vaccination. Both organizations remind residents that seasonal influenza is more dangerous than the common cold for children. Residents are encouraged to speak with their health care providers about the best ways to protect themselves and their families. Vaccines for the flu, RSV and COVID are available in many of their offices and at pharmacies throughout the county.

In addition to vaccination, other tips for preventing the spread of germs and staying healthy include covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow; frequent hand washing and disinfecting often touched surfaces like doorknobs, countertops and phones; staying home when sick and wearing a mask when ill. 

For more information:

·        Putnam County Department of Health—Respiratory Virus Cases by Week

·         Influenza—Mayo Clinic (Spanish)

·         Influenza—Mayo Clinic (English)

·         American Academy of Pediatrics Policy Statement —Recommendations for Prevention and Control of Influenza in Children, 2025-2026

·         Flu (Influenza)—New York State Department of Health

·         NYS Respiratory Surveillance Report

·         Vaccine Safety