Commissioner Declares Influenza No Longer Prevalent

The Department of Health (DOH) issued a statement that influenza is no longer prevalent in New York State for the 2014-15 influenza season. Thus, DOH no longer requires those not vaccinated against influenza for the current influenza season to wear a surgical or procedure mask while in areas where patients or residents are typically present; until influenza is prevalent again. This regulation applies to all health care and residential facilities and agencies regulated pursuant to Article 28, 36, or 40 of the Public Health Law, which includes nursing homes, home care (including home care agencies in assisted living programs) and hospice. This declaration shall remain in effect until the Commissioner declares influenza to be prevalent in New York State again. Click here for more information.

Contact: Diane Darbyshire, ddarbyshire@leadingageny,org, Elliott Frost, efrost@leadingageny.org or Cheryl Udell, cudell@leadingageny.org, 518-867-8383