Update On Respiratory Viruses From State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald and City Health Commissioner Dr. Ashwin Vasan

Encourage Health Care Facilities to Take Additional Steps to Protect Their Patients and Workforce

ALBANY, N.Y. (January 8, 2024) – "The New York State and New York City Departments of Health are reporting an increase in hospitalizations associated with COVID and Flu, and we are also still seeing a significant number of infections from RSV. We continue to monitor JN.1, the currently dominant COVID variant. Although JN.1 does not appear to cause more severe illness than other variants, it appears to be more contagious.

With all three major respiratory viruses currently circulating at these levels, today we support health care providers, hospitals, and nursing homes doing everything they can to protect patients and their workforce, and recommend that health care and residential facilities advocate strongly for the use of masks within their facility to prevent transmission and ensure a healthy workforce.

We urge New Yorkers to stay current on vaccinations, get tested when displaying symptoms, and to stay away from others and seek treatment early, if testing positive. Because of potential health impacts and hospital capacity concerns, New Yorkers, especially those not feeling well or most susceptible to illness, should consider wearing a mask in crowded, indoor settings to help avoid getting sick or getting others sick. We have a lot of knowledge and many tools to help navigate this respiratory virus season safely, together. And we will always support New Yorkers during times of uncertainty and remain dedicated to keeping everyone healthy and safe."

A link to guidance for facilities may be accessed here.