By Vaccine Watch: What New York Doctors Are Warning Ahead of Flu Season
Health experts across New York urge residents to get vaccinated early as flu cases rise faster than last year. Hospitals are preparing for a tough winter.
As the weather cools and crowds return indoors, New York doctors are raising the alarm: flu season is hitting early,and harder.
City health officials are urging everyone, especially seniors and young children, to get their flu shots before November.
“We’re already seeing a sharp increase in flu-like illnesses, weeks earlier than expected,” said Dr. Karen Liu, an infectious disease specialist at Mount Sinai Hospital. “Vaccination is the best defense we have.”
Rising Numbers Across the State
The New York State Department of Health reported a 22% increase in flu cases compared to this time last year (source).
In New York City alone, over 8,000 lab-confirmed flu cases were recorded in the first two weeks of October. Hospitals in Queens and Brooklyn have already started expanding testing and treatment areas.
Doctors warn that the overlap of flu, RSV, and lingering COVID-19 infections could pressure healthcare systems.
“The triple threat is real,” Dr. Liu added. “If vaccination rates stay low, we could see a spike in hospitalizations by December.”
Why Doctors Are Concerned
Flu viruses mutate each year, and vaccine effectiveness depends on how well the formula matches circulating strains. This year’s vaccine, according to the CDC, is a “good match” for the dominant strain but needs wider coverage to work effectively (source).
Only 43% of New Yorkers got the flu shot last season — well below the national goal of 70%.
Health experts fear that vaccine fatigue, fueled by years of pandemic messaging, may cause more people to skip their flu shots this fall.
“People think they’re safe just because they feel healthy,” said Dr. Luis Romero from NYU Langone Health. “But the flu doesn’t wait for anyone. Once it spreads, it spreads fast.”
What New Yorkers Can Do
Doctors recommend getting vaccinated before the end of October, as it takes about two weeks for full protection. Most pharmacies, clinics, and hospitals across the city offer free or insurance-covered flu shots.
Parents are also reminded to vaccinate children over six months old.
Simple precautions: washing hands, wearing masks in crowded places, and staying home when sick, still make a difference.
Local Impact: More Than Just Health
Public health officials say a severe flu season could also affect schools, workplaces, and the city’s economy. The CDC estimates that the flu costs the U.S. over $10 billion each year in lost productivity and hospital care (source).
For New York’s service industry, from restaurants to public transport — sick leave spikes can slow operations just as the holiday season begins.
“This is not just about getting sick,” said Dr. Romero. “It’s about keeping our city running smoothly.”
Voices from the City
At a Midtown vaccination clinic, local teacher Maria Gonzalez shared her reason for getting the shot early this year.
“Last winter, half my students were out with the flu,” she said. “I can’t go through that again. One quick shot, and I’m ready for winter.”
Pharmacists say they’ve noticed more people like Maria showing up earlier this year, driven by both caution and convenience.
Looking Ahead
Experts hope New Yorkers will act before cases peak. Flu season typically runs through May, but early vaccination could make a big difference in how severe it becomes.
Health officials will keep monitoring case trends and vaccine rates over the next few weeks.
If the public responds early, hospitals may avoid the overcrowding seen in past winters.
For now, the message from doctors is clear: get vaccinated, stay safe, and help protect your city.
For more updates on New York’s public health and safety, follow Daily NewYork Health Desk.
Reporting by The Daily Newyorks Staff Writer.
