New York declares flu is widespread and enacts masking rules for unvaccinated health workers in patient areas
New York is in the midst of flu season, with cases climbing across the state.
State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald announced that influenza is now prevalent in New York, triggering requirements for unvaccinated healthcare personnel to wear masks in areas where patients or residents may be present.
“Declaring flu prevalence statewide means facilities and agencies must mandate that staff who have not been vaccinated wear a mask to prevent spreading the flu to patients and residents,” Dr. McDonald stated in a press release. “The flu vaccine remains the strongest defense against infection and can lessen symptoms if illness occurs. Everyone age six months and older should get a flu shot, and it’s not too late to protect yourself and those you care for.”
The rule applies to health care and residential care facilities and agencies overseen by the State Health Department. Under the policy, unvaccinated personnel must wear surgical or procedure masks while influenza is considered prevalent. Masks may be removed when staff accompany patients in the community, deliver speech therapy services, or communicate with individuals who rely on lip-reading.
State data through November 22 indicate 17,783 confirmed flu cases across all 62 counties so far this season. Outside New York City, lab-confirmed cases rose 114% week over week, from 1,688 to 3,619. In New York City, cases increased 119%, from 1,890 to 4,146.
Influenza hospitalizations also climbed, up 99% statewide, from 208 to 413 in the latest week.
Public health officials urged residents last month to get the seasonal flu vaccine to help prevent influenza-related pediatric deaths. For the 2024-2025 season, 27 children under 18 died from the flu.
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