Flu cases continue to spread across New Jersey and Connecticut as a public health emergency was declared Saturday for the entire state of New York in response to the spreading illness.
In New Jersey, hospital emergency room visits by patients with flu-like symptoms are double the number seen at this time last year.
Two children have died, both with underlying medical conditions that made them more vulnerable. Flu activity is highest in central and northeast portions of New Jersey.
There were 1,680 confirmed cases of flu in Connecticut as of Jan. 5, an increase over the past two years. Three flu deaths have occurred, all in people older than 65. Vaccine supplies are adequate.
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“We have seen a sharp increase in flu activity over the past few weeks here in Connecticut,” DPH Commissioner Dr. Jewel Mullen said. People should take steps to avoid getting the flu, including getting vaccinated. Even though the flu is here, it’s still not too late to get vaccinated.”
Gov. Cuomo's health emergency declaration in New York came after the number of patients admitted to hospitals throughout the state with confirmed cases of influenza spiked 55 percent last week. Two children have also died, according to the state Health Department.
The emergency order allows pharmacists to administer flu vaccinations to children 6 months and older.
Copyright AP - Associated Press
