The New York State Department of Health has issued a health advisory to public and private schools across the state, regarding influenza activity.
"It is easy to become complacent about the flu when our minds are on the latest COVID-19 wave and with the weather turning warmer," said State Health Commissioner Dr. Mary Bassett. "But we know that Influenza rates are climbing alongside COVID-19 cases, so we must be vigilant these next few weeks and take precautions to keep healthy. Wear a mask in indoor public spaces if living in high-risk counties or personally at-risk, and stay home if you feel ill."
Routine flu surveillance takes place from October to May of each year. This year it was discovered that after declines in flu infections in January and February, laboratory confirmed cases and hospitalizations were increasing in March and April.
The week ending May 7 saw statewide positive flu rates increase by 25% from the previous week, the most recent data available.
Erie County Commissioner of Health Dr. Gale Burstein noted that this year's spring levels are higher than in previous years. She added that even though it is near the end the flu season, a flu vaccine may still reduce the risk of severe illness.
Health officials said 59% of laboratory confirmed cases since the flu season began last fall were among children and teens under age 17, and 42% of hospitalizations affected persons age 65 and up.
