The New York State Department of Health is encouraging residents, especially children and adolescents, to receive the seasonal influenza vaccine for the 2025-2026 season. The department’s call comes after a record 27 pediatric deaths associated with influenza were reported during the previous flu season, marking the highest number recorded in a single year in the state.
Health officials stress that annual vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent serious illness from the flu. The department recommends that everyone aged 6 months and older get vaccinated. The vaccine is widely available at pharmacies and healthcare providers across New York.
Infants under six months old are not eligible for the flu vaccine but are at higher risk for severe complications from influenza. Health experts advise that vaccinating all household members and caregivers is crucial to protecting these infants.
“Last year’s flu season, we lost 27 of our children to the flu, more than any year in our memory,” said State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald. “We are already seeing a significant increase in cases of flu throughout the state. The flu vaccine is the best protection for children, keep in mind, infants less than 6 months are vulnerable and not able to be immunized, so very important all of those around them are up to date with the vaccine.”
Vaccination can help reduce hospitalizations and deaths related to influenza. Children aged 2 years and older can receive their flu shot at participating pharmacies without a prescription or at their healthcare provider’s office. Children as young as 6 months can get vaccinated at a provider’s office.
More information about the flu vaccine is available here.
Information about vaccine safety can be found here.
