(New York, NY) -- The flu virus is spreading in New York State, and that's prompting a health alert.
Public health officials are urging New Yorkers to get the flu shot. Cases of the flu have hit 54 out of 62 counties in New York including Dutchess and Ulster Counties. Dutchess County is reporting a rising number of flu cases. Experts say this may be an especially bad flu season as cases continue to pile up before the traditional peak in February.
NY Health Commissioner Dr. Howard Zucker says, "Vaccination is the best way to protect against influenza, and is especially important for health care workers. Health care personnel are routinely exposed to sick patients and come in close contact with patients who are most vulnerable to influenza, such as the elderly. I encourage all New Yorkers older than six months to get their influenza shot as soon as possible."
Photo: flickr, dycken999