Dr. James McDonald, the commissioner of health for New York State, announced that mask use is now mandatory for certain healthcare workers due to the current flu prevalence in the state.
When the Commissioner announces that influenza is widespread in New York State, unvaccinated healthcare personnel working in the following environments are required to wear surgical or procedure masks.
Hospitals, assisted living facilities, diagnostic and treatment centres, hospices, certified home health agencies, long-term home health care programmes, AIDS home care programmes, licenced home care service agencies, restricted licenced home care service agencies, and certified home health agencies are just a few of these establishments.
This announcement follows a 34% increase in lab-confirmed flu prevalence cases week over week, from 1,487 cases the week before to 1,993 cases outside of the New York City region. There are now 2,068 cases in New York City, up from 1,713 instances the week before, a 21 percent increase.
Health care workers who are not vaccinated against the flu prevalence this season should take extra precautions and wear masks in healthcare facilities as they are exposed to sick patients and come into close contact with those who are most vulnerable to the flu, according to Dr. McDonald, who declared that the flu was now widespread in New York State. “The flu vaccine is the best strategy to protect yourself and will decrease the symptoms if you do become sick. It is recommended for everyone six months of age and older. Obtain your flu shot right away; it’s not too late.
Wearing Masks During Flu Prevalence
Those six months of age and older can get the flu vaccination. The groups most at risk of hospitalisation include those who are 65 years of age or older, those with specific chronic medical illnesses, small children, and pregnant women. Additionally, if a high-dose flu vaccination is available, people 65 years of age and older should have it.
Health care professionals can prescribe antiviral drugs, including Tamiflu, to treat the flu and lessen its duration and severity. The federal government recently granted the State authorization to use the Strategic National Stockpile in order to obtain Tamiflu and guarantee supplies are available when needed, amid concerns of spot shortages in certain places.
For both adults and children, preventing infection and lowering the risk of serious illness is still best achieved by receiving the flu shot.
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