Heather Miller, Chenango County Director of Patient Services and Heather Karn, Immunization Coordinator. (Submitted photo)

CHENANGO COUNTY - Flu season has arrived across New York State, and local health officials are reminding residents to stay proactive.

Chenango County reported 250 confirmed flu cases last year, and with respiratory viruses like RSV and COVID-19 still circulating, taking preventive measures, such as vaccination, can make a significant difference in keeping our community healthy.

Getting your flu shot is the single best way to protect yourself and those around you from severe illnesses. While the vaccine cannot prevent every case, people who are vaccinated tend to experience much milder symptoms and recover more quickly if they do get sick. A flu shot helps reduce the chances of hospitalization and lowers the spread of the virus within the community.

Annual vaccination is especially important because flu strains change from year to year. By getting vaccinated, you not only protect yourself but also help reduce the spread of the virus to those who are more vulnerable.

Vaccination offers the strongest defense, but everyday healthy habits also make a difference. Wash your hands often with soap and water or use hand sanitizer when on the go. Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze and avoid touching your face. Most importantly, if you’re not feeling well, stay home to prevent spreading the flu to others.

Flu vaccines are widely available and easy to access. You can contact your primary care provider, visit your local pharmacy, or reach out to the Chenango County Public Health Nursing Division at (607) 337-1660 for information about local clinics and vaccination options.

Flu symptoms often develop suddenly. They may include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, chills, and fatigue. Children sometimes experience vomiting or diarrhea. Not everyone will develop a fever, so it’s important to pay attention to other signs. If you start to feel sick, get plenty of rest, drink fluids, and contact your healthcare provider, especially if symptoms worsen.

Certain people are more likely to develop serious complications from the flu. This includes adults over 65, young children, pregnant individuals, and those with chronic health conditions such as asthma, heart disease, diabetes, or weakened immune systems. If you or someone in your care falls into one of these categories and begins to show symptoms, contact a healthcare provider immediately. Antiviral medications are most effective when started within the first 48 hours of illness.

Influenza spreads easily through coughs, sneezes, and close contact. By getting vaccinated, you help safeguard not only yourself but also your family, coworkers, and neighbors—especially those who are more vulnerable to severe illness. Each flu shot helps strengthen our community’s overall protection and reduces the number of local cases each year.

For the latest updates on flu activity in New York State, visit the Department of Health’s Flu Surveillance page at www.health.ny.gov/flu.
Please contact the Chenango County Health Department at (607) 337-1660 to schedule your flu shot today. Together, we can help keep everyone in our county healthy and safe this flu season.

Persons with questions or requiring additional information may contact the Chenango County Health Department at (607) 337-1660.

- Information from the Chenango County Health Dept.