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New health data shows that flu cases are on the rise again across the Hudson Valley, with Westchester County reporting the highest number of new infections for the week ending Saturday, March 7. Westchester logged 603 cases, followed by Orange County with 160 and Dutchess County with 158, according to a report from News 12.
Since the start of the flu season last fall, more than 378,000 New Yorkers have tested positive for the virus, based on information from local health departments and the New York State Department of Health. This recent uptick follows a brief period of declining case numbers in the region, as earlier in the season Westchester had reported weekly flu cases as high as 3,026, with similarly high counts in Orange and Rockland counties.
Health officials warn that the current increase may be tied to a second peak in flu activity, a trend also seen in national data. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has noted a nearly 20 percent rise in confirmed flu cases nationwide over the past week, as reported by iHeart Hudson Valley. Experts are observing an uptick in influenza B cases, while Influenza A(H3N2) remains the dominant strain, which has historically led to more hospitalizations and deaths, especially among older adults.
Doctors at Phelps Hospital in Westchester County say the number of flu cases and hospitalizations is much higher than at this point last year. Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins recently highlighted the importance of vaccination, stating it can "reduce the risk of having to go to the doctor by 40 to 60 percent."
Officials continue to urge residents to get vaccinated if they have not already done so. Flu vaccines are widely available at pharmacies and doctor's offices, and those seeking a clinic can visit vaccines.gov.
The flu season typically runs through late April or early May, and health experts recommend taking preventive measures like getting vaccinated, staying home when sick, and practicing good hygiene to protect the community.