ALBANY \u2013 New York has broken its record for flu cases in a single week.\u00a0<\/p>\n
The\u00a0state\u2019s 71,123 cases\u00a0during the past week were the most in a regular seven-day stretch since influenza became reportable in 2004.<\/p>\n
The State Health Department said new\u00a0flu cases\u00a0have led to a 38 percent jump from the previous week.<\/p>\n
Flu hospitalizations rose 63 percent statewide, up to 3,666 from 2,251 the week before.\u00a0<\/p>\n
State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said his office was \u201cclosely reviewing hospital bed capacity data to better understand hospitalization trends and to guide any necessary response related to impacts from respiratory viral infections.\u201d<\/p>\n
He added, \u201cWhile influenza activity is elevated, there are simple steps New Yorkers can take to protect themselves and those around them, including getting vaccinated, staying home when sick and practicing everyday preventive measures.\u201d<\/p>\n
Meanwhile, Putnam County has the dubious distinction of ranking first in influenza cases compared to all other counties in the state.<\/p>\n
The State Department of Health said Putnam\u2019s rate was 918 cases per 100,000, the typical way in which flu case numbers are counted and reported.<\/p>\n
Putnam Health Director Rian Rodriguez said, \u201cmore than half of Putnam\u2019s flu cases are in children aged five through 17. During the holiday season with family and friends gathering, this rise will continue. We urge residents to take precautions and stay home when sick to avoid spreading germs. It is also not too late to get vaccinated, since flu season typically runs until late April or early May, and vaccines remain the best preventative measure.\u201d<\/p>\n
Across the Hudson River at the Garnet Health Urgent Care Center in the Town of Wallkill, there was a 2 \u00bd hour wait to see a health care provider.<\/p>\n
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