Cuomo Reminds New Yorkers To Get Their Flu Shots

Governor Andrew Cuomo is reminding all New Yorkers to get a flu shot as new numbers released today show sharp inclines in laboratory confirmed cases of influenza.

Cuomo also directed the Department of Health to work with state agencies and authorities on ways to encourage flu vaccinations among state workers and their families.

Last week, over 1.839 laboratory confirmed influenza cases were reported to the State Department of Health, a 60 percent increase in cases from the week before.

The latest increase in flu cases comes after State Health Commissioner Dr. Howard Zucker last week declared influenza prevalent in New York State.

"As flu cases continue to climb across the state, I am urging New Yorkers to protect themselves and their loved ones against this dangerous virus by getting vaccinated," Cuomo said. "The flu shot is still the best way to stay healthy during this season, and New Yorkers should take advantage of the expanded access to the flu vaccine and help prevent the spread of this virus."

There have been nearly 5,000 laboratory confirmed cases reported to the Department this flu season.

The flu season runs through May.