BINGHAMTON, N.Y. (WBNG) — For the week ending Feb. 14, New York recorded approximately 7,500 flu cases, 5,800 RSV cases, and 4,000 COVID-19 cases.
Despite trailing in case counts, RSV sent more than 800 people to the hospital — outpacing the flu’s 314 hospitalizations and COVID-19’s 390 hospitalizations combined.
Dr. Philip Heavner, pediatrician and chief medical officer at Guthrie Cortland Medical Center, said RSV causes pneumonia, typically in babies and older adults.
“What we’re seeing is we saw a peak around Christmas time, but we’re seeing another peak around now, which just shows you that RSV is what’s going around right now,” Heavner said. “We’re seeing more RSV than we are flu and COVID combined.”
During COVID-19 lockdowns, children had minimal exposure to RSV. Health officials say that children today are becoming infected and spreading the virus to vulnerable family members, including older adults.
“By the time people got to be two, they had all been exposed to this virus,” Heavner said. “So it’s so common and really contagious.”
Until 2023, there were no FDA-approved vaccines to prevent RSV. State health officials are now urging three groups to get vaccinated.
Heavner said the following groups should receive the vaccine:
Adults 75 and olderAdulst ages 50 to 74 with underlying health conditionsPregnant people and newborns
Unlike annual flu and COVID-19 vaccines, the RSV vaccine is a one-time shot.
RSV vaccines are available at most pharmacies, doctors’ offices, and local health departments. Insurance typically covers the vaccine without a copay. Free vaccines are available for uninsured New Yorkers.
Heavner says that RSV spreads by contact, so vigilant hand washing is key to preventing the spread.
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