Full Breakdown
NYC Health + Hospitals Urges Vaccination Against Flu and COVID-19
10/15/2025, 1:36:32 PM
Vaccination Campaign Overview
NYC Health + Hospitals has announced the availability of the updated influenza and COVID-19 vaccines for the 2025-2026 season at its hospitals and Gotham Health facilities. All New Yorkers aged six months and older are strongly encouraged to receive these vaccinations, which are available at no cost for established patients. The health system emphasizes that both vaccines can be administered simultaneously, providing a safe and effective means of protection during the respiratory virus season.
Importance of Vaccination
The updated vaccines are designed to offer enhanced protection against the current strains of influenza and COVID-19 circulating in the community. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the flu can lead to severe illness, hospitalization, and death. During the 2024-2025 flu season, the CDC estimated that the flu resulted in 47 to 82 million illnesses and 27,000 to 130,000 deaths in the United States. Similarly, COVID-19 remains a significant health threat, with over 380,000 hospitalizations and more than 44,000 deaths reported in 2024.
Target Populations
The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommends annual flu vaccinations for everyone aged six months and older, with specific recommendations for vulnerable populations. For adults aged 65 and older, an enhanced formulation flu vaccine is advised due to its improved effectiveness. Pregnant individuals are also strongly encouraged to get vaccinated to protect both themselves and their infants.
Official Statements & Responses
Dr. Andrew B. Wallach, Chief Medical Officer for Ambulatory Care at NYC Health + Hospitals, stated, “Vaccination remains one of the most important steps we can take to stay healthy and protect our loved ones during respiratory virus season.” Dr. Syra Madad, Chief Biopreparedness Officer, added, “Now is the time to get vaccinated against flu and COVID-19 — both viruses continue to circulate, and we know immunity can fade over time.”
Criticism & Opposition
While the health system advocates for vaccinations, some individuals express concerns regarding vaccine hesitancy, particularly among specific demographics. Critics argue that misinformation about vaccine safety and efficacy can hinder public health efforts. However, NYC Health + Hospitals maintains that the updated vaccines are safe and effective.
What's Next
As the respiratory virus season approaches, NYC Health + Hospitals will continue its vaccination campaign, encouraging New Yorkers to schedule appointments or visit facilities for walk-in vaccinations. The health system aims to enhance community immunity and reduce the burden of respiratory illnesses.
Conclusion
The call for vaccinations against influenza and COVID-19 by NYC Health + Hospitals underscores the ongoing public health challenge posed by these viruses. With the updated vaccines now available, the health system aims to protect vulnerable populations and reduce the incidence of severe illness and hospitalization during the upcoming respiratory virus season.
