Influenza

Off-season. Flu activity is low. The 2025-26 season has ended. Updated vaccine available in late summer.

What is it?

Influenza (the flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza A and B viruses. It circulates primarily in fall and winter, typically peaking between December and February in New York.

How it spreads

Spreads through respiratory droplets when infected people cough, sneeze, or talk. Less commonly spread by touching contaminated surfaces then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes.

Symptoms

Sudden onset of fever, chills, muscle aches, headache, cough, sore throat, and fatigue. Unlike a cold, flu symptoms come on quickly and are typically more severe.

Who is at risk?

Children under 5, adults 65+, pregnant people, and those with chronic health conditions are at highest risk for serious complications including pneumonia.

What you can do

Vaccine information

Annual flu vaccine recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Updated each season; available starting September at pharmacies and clinics statewide.

Surveillance data updated from government sources daily or weekly. Threat level reflects current wastewater signal or clinical reports.