NEW YORK CITY — New York City has more than 140,000 reported flu cases this season and four children have died, the Health Department disclosed this week.
The four cases are the first pediatric deaths reported during this flu season. In total, there have been 144,000 reported cases in the city.
New data show more than 1,400 lab-reported cases in the last week of January, marking the sixth straight week of declining flu cases. Emergency department visits related to the flu have also decreased.
“No one should lose a child to a disease for which the most serious of outcomes can often be prevented by vaccination,” New York City Acting Health Commissioner Michelle Morse said. “Despite recent declines, it’s normal for flu cases to tick up again at this time of year. We continue to recommend keeping yourself and your family protected by getting vaccinated, washing your hands often, and staying hydrated.”
Over half, 52 percent of reported flu cases, have been children under 18. In addition, the city is still seeing its largest number of RSV cases among New Yorkers younger than 5 years old.
In New York State, nine children have died from the flu as of the end of January. Last year, 27 children died from the flu statewide.
The Health Department recommends all New Yorkers 6 months and older get this season’s flu and COVID-19 vaccines. You can find information about where to get a flu shot here.
Flu Has Killed 4 Children In NYC, Positive Cases Up To 144k: Health Dept. originally appeared on the New York City Patch