Health experts are urging Long Islanders to get vaccinated against flu, COVID and respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV.
That’s the message behind “Tame the Triple Threat,” a public health awareness campaign by the Suburban Hospital Alliance of New York State (SHANYS) and the New York State Association of County Health Officials.
The message comes at a time of increased cases of flu, which according to New York State, became prevalent on Dec. 6, and with steadily rising rates of both flu and COVID-19. And as of Nov. 29, there were more RSV cases than both COVD and flu across the state.
Rising rates of the three illnesses, combined with colder weather and more time spent indoors, are ideal conditions for mutating viruses to target healthy New Yorkers, medical experts warn.
“Getting your family vaccinated for flu, COVID-19, and RSV this season is critical, especially for children,” Sarah Ravenhall, executive director of the New York State Association of County Health Officials, said in a written statement.
“It’s also important to stay home when you’re feeling sick and to seek care from your health care provider if symptoms persist or if you are at risk of severe respiratory illness,” Ravenhall said.
“The flu, COVID-19, and RSV are three distinct infections, but the symptoms can look similar,” Wendy Darwell, president and CEO of the Suburban Hospital Alliance of New York State, said in a written statement.
“We hope residents will take precaution against theses upper respiratory viruses and opt for vaccination to protect themselves and their families from these contagious diseases,” Darwell added.
This season’s campaign urges vaccination if eligible, as experts say they greatly reduce the chance of contending with the three viruses.
Vaccines are available at hospitals, pharmacies, local health departments, clinics, Federally Qualified Health Centers, physician offices and other locations in the region.
Experts recommend calling ahead to check on supply.
Adina Genn
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