Flu cases quadruple in New York as only 18% of New Yorkers have been vaccinated

Flu is surging in New York: through October 24, the state recorded 10,842 lab-confirmed cases, nearly four times the 2,657 reported in the same period of 2025, according to data from the state Health Department.

Last week alone, 4,172 infections were counted, compared with 910 a year earlier. On Long Island, Nassau County already had 1,034 confirmed cases and Suffolk 735. State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald warned that “I don't think the public is prepared for this flu season” and that “we see nothing reassuring.”

Part of the problem is low vaccination: only 18% of eligible New Yorkers have been vaccinated this season. McDonald noted that the vaccine takes about two weeks to build protection and urged people to get it at least three weeks before Thanksgiving gatherings.

“The flu vaccine is more important this year because the season is different,” the commissioner said. Last year there were more than 27,000 hospitalizations and 600 flu deaths in the state, including 15 children. The CDC recommends immunization starting at six months of age.

Photo: La Tribuna Hispana

Source: La Tribuna Hispana