It's still flu season

NYS flu incidence graph 2017-February-25

Noted: Influenza continues to be "widespread" around New York State, according to the state Department of Health's latest weekly surveillance report. (It covers the week ending February 25.) All 62 counties reported cases, and almost all of them did so at levels that qualify for the highest activity category.

On the upside, the number of positive lab tests for flu cases from across the state peaked in early February and has been declining bit by bit the last few weeks. But the number of positive cases in sections of upstate -- including the Capital Region -- has continued to climb during February.

Influenza is kind of like the weather. It tends to follow some large-scale patterns, but ultimately you can never really be sure what's going to happen exactly. Last year's flu season in York State peaked in March, which is a bit on the late side. And the 2013-2014 season had two peaks: one in January and another in April.

And, of course, the flu is a very specific illness (or to be more precise, a specific group of viruses). It doesn't include colds, stomach bugs, and whatever the hell that cough was that once it got a hold of you wouldn't let go that seemed to be everywhere around the holidays.

So, uh, you know, keep washing your hands and coughing into your elbow. And if you're really sick and can stay home, do so.

The Scoop

For a decade All Over Albany was a place for interested and interesting people in New York's Capital Region. It was kind of like having a smart, savvy friend who could help you find out what's up. AOA stopped publishing at the end of 2018.

Recently on All Over Albany

Thank you!

When we started AOA a decade ago we had no idea what was going to happen. And it turned out better than we could have... (more)

Let's stay in touch

This all feels like the last day of camp or something. And we're going to miss you all so much. But we'd like to stay... (more)

A few things I think about this place

Working on AOA over the past decade has been a life-changing experience for me and it's shaped the way I think about so many things.... (more)

Albany tightened its rules for shoveling snowy sidewalks last winter -- so how'd that work out?

If winter ever gets its act together and drops more snow on us, there will be sidewalks to shovel. And shortly after that, Albany will... (more)

Tea with Jack McEneny

Last week we were fortunate enough to spend a few minutes with Jack McEneny -- former state Assemblyman, unofficial Albany historian, and genuinely nice guy.... (more)

Recent Comments

My three year old son absolutely loving riding the train around Huck Finn's (Hoffman's) Playland this summer.

Thank you!

...has 27 comments, most recently from Ashley

Let's stay in touch

...has 4 comments, most recently from mg

A look inside 2 Judson Street

...has 3 comments, most recently from Diane (Agans) Boyle

Everything changes: Alicia Lea

...has 2 comments, most recently from Chaz Boyark

A few things I think about this place

...has 13 comments, most recently from Katherine