Putnam County, NY Faces Record-Breaking Flu Season

Record Flu Season in New York

• 📈 New York is experiencing a record-breaking flu season, with a significant surge in cases across the state.
• 🇺🇸 Nationally, the most recent federal survey indicates 20,000 people hospitalized due to the flu.

Putnam County Leads in Flu Cases

• 📍 Putnam County has the highest rate of flu cases in New York, with 917 cases per 100,000 residents.
• 🥈 This places Putnam County significantly ahead of second-place Nassau County, which has 569 cases per 100,000 residents.
• 🛒 Local pharmacies like Drug World in Cold Spring report that flu-related products are selling out rapidly.

High-Risk Populations Identified

• 👵 The older than 75 population is disproportionately affected, accounting for 40% of hospitalizations.
• 👶 Toddlers under four years old are also identified as being at high risk by state health officials.

Public Health Recommendations

• 🏠 State health commissioner Dr. Jim McDonald advises individuals who are sick to stay home to prevent germ transmission.
• 💉 Experts emphasize the importance of flu shots as a preventative measure.
• 💊 Pharmacists recommend consulting with them or a doctor regarding potential negative interactions between prescription and over-the-counter flu medications.
• 🗓️ The flu season is expected to continue into April.