Thousands of flu cases reported in NYC: NYSDOH

NEW YORK (PIX11) -- Flu cases are surging across New York, with nearly half of the cases reported in New York City, according to the New York State Department of Health.

In the most recent data released by the Department of Health, there were 24,513 cases in New York from Dec. 21 to 28th. Of these, 11,827 were in New York City, while 9,264 were found in the surrounding areas, including Nassau, Suffolk, and Westchester Counties.

Hospitalizations have spiked, with New York City seeing an 85% increase from the week before. Nassau County saw the biggest leap in hospitalizations, with an increase of 156%.

While the flu can affect individuals differently, older adults, young children, pregnant people, and people with certain medical conditions may be at higher risk of flu-like complications.

Those who come down with the flu should stay home until symptoms and there has been no fever in the last 24 hours. People are most contagious during the first 3 three days of the illness. The CDC recommends wearing a mask and covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue for those who have to go outside.

Receiving an annual flu shot and frequently washing hands helps to prevent the spread of the flu.

You can track flu cases in New York City on the New York State Health Connector website.