DOH: Flu no longer prevalent in New York

A flu vaccine is prepared at the LA Care and Blue Shield of California Promise Health Plans Community Resource Center in Lynwood, Calif., Friday, Oct. 28, 2022. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill, File)

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) — In an announcement that officially lifts the mask requirement for healthcare workers not vaccinated against the flu, the New York State Department of Health says the flu does not is more prevalent in the state.

“As flu season comes to an end and the virus is no longer prevalent in New York, we are removing the mask requirement for healthcare workers in hospitals, nursing homes and nursing homes. adult care facilities who have not been vaccinated against the flu,” New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said.

The flu was declared widespread in New York in the middle of National Flu Vaccination Week on December 6. New York has seen more than 25,000 hospitalizations from the flu during the 2023-24 flu season. These peaked towards the end of 2023, running through 2024.

“Everyone aged 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine because it is the best way to protect yourself and will reduce symptoms if you get sick,” Dr. McDonald said during his statement in December.