(Albany, NY) -- NY Health officials say the flu virus is now prevalent statewide. There have already been more than 32-hundred confirmed cases. In the Mid-Hudson area Dutchess County is reporting the greatest number of flu cases Health officials say anyone older than six months should get vaccinated immediately.
"The importance of getting vaccinated against influenza to protect yourself, as well as your family and friends, cannot be overstated," said Health Department Chief Dr. Howard Zucker. "Healthcare personnel are routinely exposed to sick patients and are also in close contact with vulnerable patients. The requirement that unvaccinated healthcare personnel wear a mask when patients are nearby protects both our critical healthcare workface and at-risk New Yorkers. I encourage all New Yorkers older than six months to get their influenza vaccine as soon as possible."
Flu season normally runs through May.
(Photo by Mario Villafuerte-Getty Images)