Flu Declared Prevalent in NYS
On December 6, 2023, the Department of Health (DOH/the Department) issued a Health Advisory declaring influenza as prevalent here in New York.
Under the Health Commissioner’s declaration, NYS Sanitary Code Section 2.59 becomes enforceable for organizations licensed by Articles 28, 36, and/or 40 of the state’s Public Health Laws.
As such, affected entities must ensure that all personnel not vaccinated against influenza for the current season wear a surgical or procedure mask while in areas where patients or residents are typically present.
These requirements will remain in effect until the Commissioner declares influenza no longer prevalent in NYS.
HCP reminds provider members to immediately activate their agency’s policies and procedures related to influenza season.
Visit HCP’s public Emergency Management Page for details.
See the state’s dedicated website or the DOH FAQs on this topic for more information.
Direct questions to the Department.