New York City is grappling with a historic NYC flu surge this winter, prompting doctors to urge fast testing, early treatment, masking at home, and vaccination as more than 70,000 cases are reported statewide ahead of peak season.
New York is in the midst of one of its worst flu seasons in years, with state data showing more than 70,000 new cases reported during the week before Christmas. Health officials say dense living conditions and holiday travel are helping the virus spread quickly across the city.
Doctors say early testing and prompt care can reduce the severity of illness and help slow transmission, even as many New Yorkers struggle to isolate in shared apartments.
Testing Early Improves Treatment Options
Health experts recommend confirming flu infection as soon as symptoms begin during the NYC flu surge. At-home tests that detect influenza and COVID-19 are widely available at pharmacies, while urgent care centers across the five boroughs offer in-person testing.
Dr. Andrew Wallach, ambulatory care chief medical officer at NYC Health + Hospitals, said timing is critical. Antiviral medications such as Tamiflu are most effective when taken within forty-eight hours of symptom onset.
“We want people to get tested early so we can start treatment when it has the greatest impact,” Wallach said.
New Yorkers can also consult primary care physicians or use insurer directories and online services to find covered providers. NYC Health + Hospitals’ virtual ExpressCare offers telehealth visits in more than two hundred languages, twenty-four hours a day.
Wallach added that some people at higher risk, including older adults, may qualify for preventive medication if they are exposed but not yet sick amid the NYC flu surge.
Masks, Distance Help Limit Household Spread
While isolating is the best way to prevent transmission, many city residents share small living spaces. Doctors say masking and hygiene measures can still make a difference.
Wallach recommends wearing masks in common areas, frequent hand washing and keeping a distance of three to six feet when possible.
For parents, precautions can reduce the risk of catching the flu from sick children. Dr. Amanda Kravitz, a pediatrician at Weill Cornell Medicine, said masks and gloves remain effective tools.
“Not everyone wants to do that around their kid, but it does work,” Kravitz said. “I see kids with the flu all the time, and I wear a mask and gloves in my office, and so far I haven’t caught the flu.”
Kravitz said a separate bedroom for a sick child is ideal, but when that is not possible, older children who can tolerate masks should wear them. She also advised wiping down frequently touched surfaces.
Hydration, Warning Signs and Vaccination
Doctors agree that hydration is essential to recovery during the NYC flu surge. Water, electrolyte drinks and popsicles can help prevent dehydration, especially in children.
“I usually tell parents, just get something into them,” Kravitz said. “Anything that they want to drink to make sure that they’re hydrating themselves is good.”
Soup may not be a cure, but it helps maintain fluid intake, Wallach said, adding that its benefits are “rooted in science.”
Medical care may be needed if symptoms worsen. Kravitz advises parents to seek care if a child’s fever lasts more than four or five days, breathing becomes difficult, confusion develops or urination decreases. Adults should seek help if they cannot keep fluids down or if fever persists despite medication, Wallach said.
Both doctors stressed that vaccination remains important, even late in the season.
“It takes about two weeks to get full protection,” Wallach said. “We have not yet peaked here in New York City,” he said, referring to the ongoing NYC flu surge.
The city health department maintains an online map showing locations offering flu shots, including pharmacies, urgent care centers and hospitals.
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