New York City is facing an unusually severe flu season, with record-breaking cases and early surges. Many are wondering what’s causing this spike and how to stay safe. Below, we answer the most common questions about this alarming trend, including why the flu is hitting NYC so hard this year, how effective the vaccines are, and what precautions you should take now.
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Why is NYC experiencing its worst flu season in a decade?
This year’s flu season started early and is more intense than recent years. The main reason is the dominance of a mutated H3N2 strain, which spreads quickly and causes more severe illness. Additionally, fewer people are vaccinated, and the virus’s mutations help it evade immune defenses, leading to a rapid and widespread outbreak across NYC.
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What’s causing the early surge of flu cases this year?
The early surge is mainly due to the mutated H3N2 strain, which is more contagious and resistant to previous immunity. The season started about a month earlier than usual, catching many off guard. Factors like lower vaccination rates and the virus’s ability to evade immune responses have contributed to the rapid rise in cases.
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How effective are the flu vaccines against the new strain?
This year’s flu vaccines have shown lower effectiveness, around 32-39% in adults, mainly because of the mutations in the H3N2 strain. However, they still provide important protection against severe illness and hospitalization. Experts recommend getting vaccinated to reduce your risk and help protect vulnerable populations.
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What precautions should New Yorkers take now?
To stay safe during this intense flu season, New Yorkers should get vaccinated if they haven’t already, practice good hygiene like frequent handwashing, wear masks in crowded places, and avoid close contact with sick individuals. If you develop flu symptoms, seek medical advice early to manage the illness effectively.
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Is the flu season expected to get worse or improve soon?
Public health officials are monitoring the situation closely. While the current surge is severe, flu seasons typically peak and then decline. Continued vaccination efforts and preventive measures can help reduce the impact. It’s important to stay informed and follow health advisories as the season progresses.
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How does this flu season compare to previous years?
This season is the worst since 2015, with the highest number of cases and ER visits reported in NYC. The early start and the severity of the outbreak make it stand out. Experts attribute this to the mutated strain and lower vaccination rates, which have combined to create a more challenging flu season.