A trifecta of respiratory viruses; COVID-19, RSV and the flu have been spreading this winter season and health professionals like Dr. Bernard Camins of Mount Sinai are especially concerned.

“It’s coming in so early this year that when we start having our holiday gatherings, a lot more people are infected with the flu, then it could spread more,” said Camins, medical director for infection prevention at Mount Sinai Health Systems.

What You Need To Know

  • A trifecta of respiratory viruses have been spreading this winter season

  • According to the State Department of Health, last week there were about 2,465 admissions for influenza to hospitals

  • New York received special authorization after requesting permission by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to access stockpiled Tamiflu

According to the State Department of health, last week there were about 2,465 admissions for influenza to hospitals – equating to a 58% increase compared to the week prior.

Because of this, New York is now receiving special authorization after requesting permission by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to access stockpiled Tamiflu in the event influenza cases reach pandemic levels.

“They released it, so that it would be more available to communities, because at least with Tamiflu, they’re similar to antivirals for COVID, that if you give it within 48 hours of you having your symptoms it can potentially shorten your symptoms,” said Camins.

But he says one should not be panicked.  A sure way to prevent influenza, Camins says is vaccination. Similar recommendation was stressed by Governor Kathy Hochul earlier this month.

“We continue to encourage all new Yorkers to get the flu shot as we talk about how there’s been a dramatic increase in the number of individuals who have succumbed to the flu – many we know; friends, family, coworkers,” said Hochul.

New Yorkers we spoke to are on board taking precautions ahead of holiday plans.

“I got my cousin sick a while ago with COVID so I don’t want to make that mistake again So I’m just going to be safe get the shot make sure everyone is good,” said Hayley Henderson.

“My primary care told me it was time for me and I get it every year, I get the flu shot every year,” said Nancy Cotto.

“I kinda do everything I need to do to stay away from flus and COVID. I got my vaccines, I got my booster, I got my flu shot. Never had the flu,” shared J.J. Cerillo.

Now Camins said while historically only 50% of adults in America get the vaccine each year, he would like to see that number higher especially given this year’s flu trend.

“It's not 100% effective but if you do take the flu vaccine, it can: one, prevent you from getting the flu – and two, even if it doesn’t completely protect you, you are less likely to get sick,” said Camins.