As the holiday season approaches, the New York State Health Department is ramping up efforts to increase vaccination rates for both COVID-19 and influenza, particularly amid growing public apathy toward the updated COVID-19 shot. State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald highlighted the critical importance of vaccinations, noting that COVID-19 and flu infections typically peak around New Year’s Eve.
Data shows that only 4.5% of New Yorkers have received the updated COVID shot so far, compared to 8.9% for flu vaccinations. Despite these low rates, McDonald emphasized that it’s still early and that both vaccines can be administered simultaneously for optimal protection. He also reiterated that this year’s COVID-19 vaccine is well-suited to the current Omicron subvariant.
Efforts are being bolstered by a national campaign led by the state Association for Rural Health and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, which aims to combat vaccine hesitancy and spread awareness about the benefits of flu, COVID, and RSV vaccinations.
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