New York flu cases hit all-time high as infections surge statewide

New York is getting slammed by the flu.

The state logged 71,123 positive flu cases in the week ending on Dec. 20 — the highest single-week total since tracking began in 2004, according to the New York State Department of Health.

The figure marks a 38% jump from the previous week and signals an early, fast-moving flu season.

So far this season, 189,312 flu cases have been reported statewide.

Health officials say the surge started weeks earlier than usual and is expected to keep climbing as flu season typically peaks in January.

Emergency rooms are already feeling the strain. New York City hospitals reported 9,857 emergency room visits for flu-like illness in the week ending Dec. 20, the highest level seen in at least a decade.

Lab-confirmed cases show how widespread the virus has become, with the city recording 32,239 flu cases that week. More than half of those who fell sick, were children.

State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said the numbers are the highest ever recorded for a single week, though increased testing may be capturing more cases than in past years.

The dominant strain circulating this season is H3N2, which has mutations that may help it evade immune defenses, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

Early data suggests the flu shot may be less effective at preventing infection but still lowers the risk of hospitalization.

State officials say there is no sign the strain is more severe than usual. Most hospitalized patients have underlying health conditions.

Inpatient flu hospitalizations rose sharply last week to 3,666 statewide, up from 2,251 the week before.

Public health experts warn the worst may still be ahead and urge New Yorkers to get vaccinated and stay home when sick.