NYC Health Commissioner Offers Tips on Navigating Respiratory Virus Surge

As winter descends upon New York City, residents are facing more than just chilly temperatures and shorter days. A surge in respiratory viruses, including flu, COVID-19, and RSV, is straining healthcare systems and raising concerns across the city.

Flu Cases Spike, Health Officials Urge Precautions

Flu cases have surged by 70% in recent weeks, while COVID-19 and RSV continue to circulate widely. In response, health officials are urging New Yorkers to take precautions to protect themselves and vulnerable populations.

To shed light on the current state of respiratory illnesses and offer guidance on staying healthy, WNYC’s Tiffany Hanssen spoke with Dr. Michelle Morse, New York City’s acting health commissioner. Dr. Morse discussed the latest case trends, the importance of vaccines, and practical steps to reduce the spread of these highly contagious viruses.

Understanding the Viruses: Flu, COVID, and RSV

“This is the time of year when we get very worried about the number of viruses circulating,” Dr. Morse explained. “We’re right smack dab in the middle of respiratory viral season, and we are seeing very significant increases in rates of influenza right now, specifically. In fact, over the past week or so, we’ve seen about a 70% increase in the number of cases of flu specifically. We are also watching very closely for COVID as COVID rates also tend to start to swing up this time of year, and RSV has been very, very commonly circulating right now.”

While flu cases are rising most dramatically, COVID-19 and RSV remain active in the community.

“The most important thing is to know that all three are actively circulating. Flu is going up much more than the others. And it’s not too late to get vaccinated. In fact, most New Yorkers should go out there if they haven’t done it already and get their flu updated COVID vaccine and their RSV vaccine, if they’re eligible, because it is not too late. And these viruses are still flowing around in the air, just about everywhere that you will be,” Dr. Morse emphasized.

Who is Most at Risk?

Dr. Morse highlighted that older adults and young children are particularly vulnerable to serious complications from these viruses.

“Older folks are at higher risk. And that’s partially because as you age, your immune system actually shifts and changes a bit and gets a little weaker. And older folks are also more likely to have a co-occurring chronic illnesses or underlying conditions. Those things, age, your immune system not working as well, whether that’s because of age or an underlying disease, and having underlying chronic conditions, all those things really increase your risk of having a complication from flu, COVID or RSV.”

She stressed that newborns and infants, in particular, are at risk of severe RSV complications. Fortunately, there are preventative measures, including vaccines and monoclonal antibodies, that can protect these vulnerable populations.

Protecting Yourself and Your Community

Dr. Morse emphasized several practical steps New Yorkers can take to protect themselves and others:

* **Get vaccinated:** Stay up-to-date on flu, COVID-19, and RSV vaccines.
* **Practice good hygiene:** Wash hands frequently, especially after coughing or sneezing.
* **Wear masks:** Consider wearing a mask in crowded indoor spaces, particularly if you are at higher risk.
* **Stay home if sick:** If you are experiencing symptoms, isolate yourself to prevent spreading the virus.
* **Consult your doctor:** If you are concerned about symptoms or your risk, reach out to your healthcare provider.

Dr. Morse concluded, “Those are the things that really are going to be protective for yourself, for your family, for your community, and for all of New York City at large in this time when the viruses are just about everywhere.”

Stay informed about respiratory viruses in NYC and find resources to protect yourself and others:
https://www1.nyc.gov/site/doh/health-topics/coronavirus.page