Flu Cases Surge on Long Island
The number of confirmed flu cases on Long Island has more than doubled within a week, suggesting that Nassau and Suffolk counties might be heading into a challenging flu season, according to state data.
Dr. David Hirschwerk, the medical director at North Shore University Hospital in Manhasset, indicated that a noticeable increase in cases could be expected in the upcoming days and weeks, particularly following holiday gatherings.
Reflecting on last year, he noted, “We started seeing a sharp rise in cases around mid-December.” Currently, flu cases and hospitalizations are slightly elevated compared to this time last year.
Infectious disease specialists are sounding alarms that this flu season could be severe. One reason for concern is the emergence of a subclade K variant from the H3N2 influenza strain, which showed up after this season’s flu vaccine was developed and has been responsible for many cases in Japan and the UK.
While respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and COVID-19 are circulating at lower rates than last year, Hirschwerk warns that the holiday season—with its many gatherings—could lead to an uptick in respiratory virus transmission.
As of the week ending November 22, Suffolk County reported 562 flu cases, a significant rise from 223 the previous week. Nassau County noted 726 cases, up from 378. Statewide figures show a similar trend, with actual flu cases likely being higher since many individuals may not seek testing.
According to state data, COVID-19 hospitalizations rose by 2% to 292, while RSV cases increased by 21% to 152. Flu hospitalizations surged by 99% to 413. The vaccination rates remain low, with only about 20% of Nassau residents and 17% in Suffolk having received their flu shots.
The CDC continues to recommend flu vaccinations for anyone over six months old.
Dr. Eve Meltzer Krief, a pediatrician at Allied Physicians Group’s Huntington Village Pediatrics, emphasized the importance of vaccination for children, noting that last year saw a record number of pediatric flu deaths across the U.S. and New York—many of whom were unvaccinated and did not have pre-existing health conditions making them particularly vulnerable.
She stated, “Getting the flu vaccine can significantly reduce the risk of serious illness, hospitalization, and even death, even in a season when the vaccine doesn’t perfectly match the circulating strain.”
Hirschwerk recommends getting vaccinated soon. “We are likely going to experience a real increase in flu cases shortly,” he cautioned. “Now is the best time to get vaccinated.”
