New York Flu Cases Rise Dramatically, Still Time To Get Your Shot

Public health officials say flu cases are on still on the rise in New York.

Just when you think it's safe, new information from the New York State Department of Health shows flu cases in New York spiking.

Data shows there have been 52-hundred new cases of the virus reported in the last week.  That's a nearly 38 percent jump from the week before.  Overall, there have been more than 21-thousand flu cases this season. 

Doctors are still reminding folks to get their flu shot - there's still time to get the shot, which is your best chance of avoiding the flu this season.

You can also take other steps to avoid the flu, according to the CDC:

• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
• While sick, limit contact with others as much as possible to keep from infecting them.
• If you are sick with flu-like illness, CDC recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities. (Your fever should be gone for 24 hours without the use of a fever-reducing medicine.)
• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. After using a tissue, throw it in the trash and wash your hands.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way.
• Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with germs like flu.