The New York State Department of Health is encouraging residents to get the updated COVID vaccine, citing a significant drop in vaccination rates compared to last year. The Department reported that since August 29, about 850,000 doses have been administered statewide. In the same period in 2024, roughly 1.2 million doses were given, marking a nearly 30 percent decline.
Older adults remain particularly vulnerable. For those aged 65 and above, there was a decrease of almost 25 percent in doses administered compared to last year’s figures for the same period.
“New York data from 2024 demonstrate COVID had a more significant impact on us than flu,” said State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald. “Last year 2,775 New Yorkers died related to COVID, and 766 died related to flu. In other words, for every one person who died related to flu, almost four died related to COVID. Last year, over 50,000 New Yorkers ended up in the hospital related to COVID and over 21,000 related to flu. COVID was more serious than flu and I expect will be the same this year as well. Vaccination remains the best protection against serious illness and death from COVID.”
The Department highlighted that most vaccinations are being given at pharmacies and stressed the importance of access and convenience in improving uptake. Parents are reminded that children under three years old cannot receive vaccines at pharmacies; instead they should consult health care providers.
Efforts continue with local health officials and community partners to expand vaccine access as respiratory illness season progresses.
Further information about COVID vaccines can be found here.
