Politics & Government

Cuomo Declares Public Health Emergency

Governor calls on state residents to get flu shots.

Now's the time to brush up on your influenza knowledge.

While California, Mississippi and Hawaii seem to have lucked out, New York, including the five boroughs, has not come out unscathed.

“We are experiencing the worst flu season since at least 2009, and influenza activity in New York State is widespread, with cases reported in all 57 counties and all five boroughs of New York City,” Cuomo said in a statement. “Therefore, I have directed my Administration, the State Health Department and others to marshal all needed resources to address this public health emergency and remove all barriers to ensure that all New Yorkers — children and adults alike — have access to critically needed flu vaccines.”

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Statistical numbers Cuomo provided included the increase in cases of influenza by 14,724 people this flu season. Last season, New York State had a reported 4,404 cases of the flu, while we are currently at 19,128 for this season alone.

The best course of action for your kids, and family, is to not only know ways to prevent attracting the virus, but also knowing the symptoms for which to look.

Find out what's happening in Forest Hillswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Along with getting vaccinated, some preventative measures - as outlined by the Red Cross - include washing hands frequently, minimizing contacted with those who are sick and limiting the amount of times you touch your eyes and mouth.

You may find it difficult to get the vaccine as more and more doctors offices are running out.

The New York City Department of Mental Health and Hygiene, however, has a list of offices and pharmacies, by borough, that can provide you with the vaccine.

Here are the providers in Queens. Calling in advance of making the trip is advisable.


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