New York Health Commissioner’s Advisory Recommends Wearing Masks
With COVID-19 and flu case numbers rising and the holidays approaching, it is more important than ever to follow the recommended health guidelines.
With the holidays approaching quickly, many people are focused on preparing for gatherings and events. Although this is known as the most wonderful time of the year, people need to remember to prioritize their health. Health experts have been advising the public since as early as September that this year’s flu and RSV cases would be high. Although COVID-19 cases have declined and the public is learning to live with the virus, it should still be a concern, especially with the cold months and many indoor gatherings taking place. Many people are wondering how they can protect themselves and their loved ones from illness while also continuing with their lives.
On December 9th, 2022 the New York Health Department issued a commissioner’s advisory due to the high case number of COVID-19 and flu that are occurring in the state and throughout the county. The advisory recommends that New York City residents wear high-quality masks when indoors and in crowded outdoor settings. This continues to be essential for people who are immunocompromised, age 65 or older, and those who are at an increased risk of complications from severe illness.
New York Health Commissioner Dr. Ashwin Vasan said, “The holiday season is about togetherness and there is a way to gather safely — even as respiratory viruses in our city are unusually high. It starts with protecting yourself. Vaccination and boosters are critical but so are common sense precautions like masking when indoors or among crowds and staying home if you don’t feel well. Also, get tested before getting together, and get treated quickly if you test positive. We want everyone to have a happy and — most of all — healthy holiday.”1
Health experts continue to recommend getting vaccinated and staying up to date with COVID-19 and flu immunizations. It is easier than ever to get these vaccines because they are available at many doctor’s offices and pharmacies. The New York City Health Department continues to do outreach programs and events to help residents with vaccination and masking. If you want to find a location near you that offers COVID-19 and flu vaccinations you can visit the NYC Vaccine Finder or call 877-VAX-4NYC (877–829–4692)
If you want to help protect yourself and your loved ones from illness this holiday season get tested for COVID before and after gatherings, wear a good quality mask, stay home if feeling unwell, stay up to date on vaccinations, and practice good hand hygiene. There is a lot to celebrate and be thankful for this year, so work on preventing the spread of illness by following recommended guidelines so that you and your loved ones can have a happy and healthy holiday.
Resources
1. Health Department issues a commissioner’s advisory as NYC faces high levels of COVID-19, influenza, and RSV. Health Department Issues a Commissioner’s Advisory as NYC Faces High Levels of COVID-19, Influenza, and RSV — NYC Health. (n.d.). Retrieved December 15, 2022, from https://www.nyc.gov/site/doh/about/press/pr2022/health-department-issues-commissioners-advisory.page
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