Flu activity is arriving earlier than usual in Central New York, with nine flu‑related hospitalizations reported in Onondaga County for the week ending Oct. 17, according to the New York State respiratory virus dashboard. Those cases are part of a total of 21 hospitalizations across the broader Central region.
Statewide numbers show a sharp increase
The dashboard recorded 3,526 laboratory‑confirmed flu cases statewide for the same week, compared with just 596 during the comparable week last season – nearly six times higher. These figures are provisional and may be updated as additional reports come in.
Local pediatric expert warns families
Dr. Jana Shaw, a professor of pediatrics and pediatric infectious disease specialist at Upstate Golisano Children’s Hospital in Syracuse, said the early activity is being felt locally. “We certainly see what is seen across New York State. We see it in Central New York as well,” she said. “It’s quite unusual to see this early rise of influenza cases this year.”
Dr. Shaw highlighted that young children and older adults are especially vulnerable to severe flu complications. While the vaccine may not always prevent infection, it can significantly reduce the risk of serious illness.
Why vaccination matters now
“We want that flu to go from wild to mild,” Dr. Shaw explained. She urged anyone who has not yet received their seasonal flu shot to contact a health‑care provider or local pharmacy. “If you have not received your flu shot yet, check with your health‑care provider or go to your pharmacy, local pharmacy, and ask for flu vaccination,” she said.
Protection takes about two weeks to develop after vaccination, making timing critical while the virus is already circulating. Dr. Shaw noted that it is still too early to predict how severe the full flu season will become.
Vaccination rates and public resources
New York health officials also reported that vaccination rates this season are lower than in previous years, though Dr. Shaw did not have specific local data to confirm whether Central New York is experiencing a similar decline.
Residents can monitor flu, COVID‑19, and RSV activity through the New York State Department of Health’s Seasonal Respiratory Virus Dashboard, which is updated weekly and allows users to view geographic patterns and compare activity over time.
Take action
For families in Syracuse, Onondaga County, and the surrounding Central New York area, the recommendation is clear: schedule a flu shot as soon as possible, especially for children, seniors, and anyone with underlying health conditions. Early vaccination not only protects individuals but also helps keep the broader community healthier throughout the season.
Original reporting: CNY Central WSTM (Sinclair) – local — read the source article.
