Respiratory viruses like RSV are on the rise in New York, especially among young children. RSV cases are increasing, leading to higher hospitalization rates for children. Adults can protect themselves and their loved ones through RSV vaccines. Flu cases are also increasing in the state. Covid-19 levels are minimal in New York, but there are signs of increasing transmission, especially in New York City. The Covid-19 season is starting later this year, possibly due to community immunity from the summer wave of infections. It’s important to get vaccinated against Covid-19 and flu to stay healthy. Dr. Marisa Donnelly, a senior epidemiologist, shares updates and recommendations for staying safe during the respiratory season.
As the respiratory season intensifies in New York and nationwide, the latest data from the week of Thanksgiving highlights the increasing prevalence of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) particularly among young children. Laboratory reports from across New York indicate a rising trend in positive RSV tests, with New York City witnessing a significant 22% surge in RSV cases during the week ending Nov. 30 compared to the previous week.
The surge in RSV activity is mirrored in the spike of national RSV hospitalization rates in children over the past few weeks. Children, especially those aged 4 and below, are being significantly impacted by respiratory viruses, with current data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention showing that this age group accounts for 8% of emergency department visits for COVID-19, flu, or RSV, whereas adults aged 65 and above only account for 1.4%.
The good news is that there are now effective ways to protect babies against RSV, with vaccines recommended for adults aged 75 and older, as well as those aged 60–74 who are at higher risk of severe RSV infections.
In addition to RSV, the incidence of flu is also on the rise in New York, with a notable 47% increase in cases reported during the week ending Nov. 30 compared to the previous week. The surge in flu cases is particularly prominent in New York City and the surrounding metro area, leading to an overall increase in hospitalizations across the state.
While COVID-19 levels remain low in New York, indications of rising transmission are starting to emerge, especially in New York City where wastewater analysis shows an uptick in COVID-19 levels. Fortunately, hospitalizations for COVID-19 among New Yorkers, especially those above 65, remain low.
The current COVID-19 season in New York presents a different outlook from the previous year, with data indicating a delayed onset of COVID-19 activity compared to 2023. This delay is attributed to the substantial summer wave of infections experienced in July and August, which likely contributed to higher community immunity extending into the fall, consequently postponing the start of this year’s winter COVID-19 season.
As the respiratory viruses, including RSV, continue to surge, it is crucial to emphasize the importance of vaccination. Same-day appointments for COVID-19 and flu vaccines are available at local pharmacies, providing a convenient opportunity for individuals to protect themselves against these respiratory illnesses.
Dr. Marisa Donnelly, a seasoned epidemiologist at Biobot Analytics, underscores the significance of vaccination amidst the rising respiratory virus activity. Her extensive experience in infectious diseases and public health threats exemplifies the dedication of public health professionals in safeguarding community health.
Healthbeat, a nonprofit news platform under Civic News Company and KFF Health News, serves as a valuable resource for public health information and updates. Stay informed and prioritize your health by staying up-to-date with the latest developments in respiratory virus activity and vaccination opportunities.
Source: TheCity.NYC
