Archive · 27 Dec 2025
Record Flu Cases Surge in New York
In 2025, New York State is seeing the highest number of flu cases ever recorded in a single week.
There were 71,123 positive flu cases reported, which is a big increase from the previous week.
The new flu variant, called subclade K, is spreading quickly and might not be fully covered by the current flu vaccine.
Only 24% of New Yorkers have gotten the flu vaccine this season.
Experts are advising people to get vaccinated, stay home when sick, and follow preventive measures to stay safe.
COVID-19 levels are lower, but new variants are still being monitored.
Older people, babies, and young children are most at risk.
It's important to take steps to prevent these illnesses from spreading.
New York State reported 71,123 flu cases in a single week, the highest ever recorded.
The new flu variant, subclade K, is driving the surge in cases and may not be fully covered by the current vaccine.
Hospitalizations due to flu increased by 63% to 3,666 in a week.
Only 24% of New Yorkers have received the flu vaccine for the 2025-2026 season.
Experts recommend vaccination, staying home when sick, and practicing preventive measures to combat the spread of influenza.
- Who
- New Yorkers, particularly younger children, the elderly, and infants
- What
- Record number of influenza cases and hospitalizations
- When
- Week ending December 20, 2025
- Where
- New York State
- Why
- Emergence of a new, fast-spreading flu variant and increased testing
- Primary Disease
- Influenza
- Secondary Disease
- COVID-19
- High-Risk Groups
- Younger kids, elderly, and infants
- Current Influenza Trend
- Rapidly rising cases
- Current COVID-19 Trend
- Lower national levels with variant monitoring
- Other Concerns
- Avian Flu and new COVID-19 variants
- Weekly Flu Cases
- 71,123
- Flu Vaccination Rate
- 24%
- Hospitalizations
- 3,666
