Governor Andrew Cuomo today signed an executive order
to combat the flu epidemic in New York. The executive order allows
pharmacists to administer flu vaccines to children ages 2 to 18 -
increasing access and convenience for New Yorkers seeking the flu
vaccination as the number of reported cases across the state continues
to rise. Over the past week, 7,779 laboratory confirmed influenza cases
were reported to the state and 1,759 New Yorkers have been hospitalized
with confirmed influenza, the highest weekly numbers in both categories
since reporting began in 2004 and surpassing last week's previous high
of 1,606 hospitalizations.
"With flu cases reaching
epidemic proportions in New York, we must do everything in our power to
fight this virus and keep New Yorkers safe," Governor Cuomo said. "Once
again, I urge all New Yorkers to help us combat this quick-spreading
strain of flu and make sure they and their loved ones are vaccinated."
To
raise awareness on the high rates of influenza and to continue to
encourage New Yorkers to get vaccinated, Governor Cuomo has also called
on the Department of Health to immediately expand the state's influenza
public service advertising campaign targeting the areas of the state
hardest hit by influenza. Additionally, subscribers to the New York
State text line will receive a message encouraging them to get a vaccine
and providing resources to find a location to receive the vaccine.
Click here for the full announcement.
Source: Press Office, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo
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