As Flu Cases Skyrocket, The Hudson Valley Leads New York

PUTNAM COUNTY, NY — Flu cases have increased dramatically in the Hudson Valley, and Putnam County health officials say that local kids are being hit specially hard.

"The incidence of disease is high, but particularly for our school-aged children. And keep in mind, we are only eight weeks into flu season," Putnam County Health Commissioner Michael J. Nesheiwat MD told Patch. "Putnam is not alone — rates are extremely high across New York state."

State health officials reported New York's first pediatric death from flu so far this season on Friday in its newest Weekly Influenza Surveillance Report. Nationwide, seven children died from flu in the past week, for a total of 21 so far this season, the Centers for Disease Control reported Friday.

State health officials also reported that the Hudson Valley region had the biggest increase in cases.

Putnam officials said cases of influenza in their small county have jumped dramatically for two consecutive weeks. There were 404 cases reported from Nov. 27 to Dec. 3, as compared to 186 cases for the week ending Nov. 26 and just 56 cases for the week ending Nov 19.

Half of Putnam's cases in the most recent reporting week are in school-aged children, 5 to 17 years old.

Influenza is a serious respiratory illness, as is COVID-19. Earlier this week, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that there have been 14 child flu deaths in the U.S. so far this year. The CDC estimated the number of annual flu deaths will reach 12,000 to 52,000, and hospitalizations from 140,000 to 710,000, based on actual ranges between 2010 and 2020.

"We want to get the message out that the influenza vaccine this year has proven to be a good match for the currently circulating flu strains, and getting vaccinated now could help families enjoy a healthy holiday season," Nesheiwat said. "Talk to your healthcare provider and protect yourself and your children now."

COVID-19 is also on the rise with 267 cases reported for the week ending Dec. 3 as compared to 201 for the week ending Nov. 26, county health officials said.

Public health initiatives work to address barriers to accessing basic healthcare, including vaccinations. Clinics are held in the Village of Brewster, supported by the NYSDOH Migrant and Seasonal Farm Worker program which ensures eligible residents receive access to vital vaccinations, while helping to address vaccine equity.

The next MSFW clinic will be held on Dec. 13, at 83 Main St. For more information on the MSFW program and to check eligibility, or to find out more about regularly immunization clinics at the health department, call 845-808-1390, x 43230.

Other practices to prevent the spread of any respiratory illness include staying home when sick, frequent hand washing and covering all coughs and sneezes.