New York State Department of Health Encourages New Yorkers To Get Vaccinated for RSV as Cases Remain High

New York State Also Seeing Increases in Influenza and COVID-19 Cases, Not Too Late to Get Vaccinated

Immunizations Available at Many Pharmacies, Health Care Provider Offices and Local Health Departments; Inquire to Confirm Availability

More RSV Hospitalizations Than Influenza and COVID-19 Combined

ALBANY, N.Y. (February 20, 2026) – The New York State Department of Health encourages eligible New Yorkers to get vaccinated against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) as cases remain steady, and hospitalizations outpace COVID-19 and flu combined.

"Respiratory syncytial virus vaccines are a recent development that provides the strongest protection we have against RSV," State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said. "Young children and older adults are particularly susceptible to RSV and its complications, which often lead to hospitalization. Simple vaccination can help prevent this severe, sometimes life-threatening illness."

There were 5,785 cases of RSV reported for the week ending February 14. After reaching a high in mid-December, RSV cases have plateaued at that level. This is the ninth week in a row that RSV cases have either held steady or increased. There were 819 hospitalizations from RSV reported for the week ending February 14. This is more hospitalizations than from influenza and COVID-19 combined. See the Department's Health Respiratory Surveillance Report for the week ending February 14, 2026 here.

RSV immunization can protect against the most severe health consequences of RSV infection, including breathing problems that can lead to critical illness and even death. Newborns, young kids with risk factors, and older adults are particularly vulnerable to RSV disease.

Newborns, infants up to 8 months of age, and children under 2 with risk factors can receive a type of immunization called monoclonal antibodies that provides immediate protection against RSV. This is strongly recommended for all newborns born within the RSV season (until the end of March) whose birthing parent did not get the vaccine during pregnancy.

Adults 75 and older and those 50 and older with risk factors such as chronic heart, lung, kidney or liver disease should also receive the RSV immunization. There are three FDA approved RSV vaccines available for people in this age group. Individuals who are unsure of whether their health conditions place them at higher risk should consult with their healthcare provider for personalized advice. Adults living in long-term care facilities may also benefit from getting the vaccine.

Between September and January, pregnant individuals between 32 and 36 weeks of pregnancy can also receive an RSV vaccine to protect their newborns after birth.

Other respiratory diseases are also currently circulating in the state and have surged in the past two weeks. For the week ending February 14, there were 7,553 flu cases reported, a 21-percent increase compared to the previous week. There were 314 hospitalizations attributed to flu in the same time period. There were 4,029 COVID-19 cases reported; this is a 2-percent increase compared to the previous week. There were 390 hospitalizations attributed to COVID-19.

Flu and COVID-19 can be more severe in those aged 65 years and older, and people with certain chronic medical conditions, young children, and pregnant people are most in jeopardy of developing serious complications, which could require hospitalization and result in death.

RSV, flu and COVID-19 Immunizations are available at many pharmacies, health care provider offices and local health departments. Inquire to confirm availability.

Under the Affordable Care Act, most health insurance plans will cover the cost of flu, RSV and COVID-19 vaccines without the need for co-pays. Those who are uninsured or whose insurance does not cover the vaccines can access vaccines free of charge through providers enrolled in the Vaccines for Children Program or Vaccines for Adults Program. Enrolled sites include community health centers and local health departments.

In addition to getting vaccines, simple preventative actions can help stop the spread of respiratory viruses:

• Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home when sick.
• Cover cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces. Information on RSV, flu and COVID-19, including the weekly viral respiratory disease report, can be found here. More detailed influenza information is available on the Department's Flu Tracker, which provides timely information about local, regional and statewide influenza activity.

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