#vaccination

#vaccination

RSV season in the U.S. typically peaks in January and February, with cases often stretching well into March. National emergency room visits and hospitalizations from the virus in kids ages four and younger have dipped slightly but are growing overall in more than a dozen states, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's latest report on January 16.

It's clear that the worst is far from over for the NHS this winter, with hospitals again experiencing a rise in patients admitted with flu and other respiratory virus cases last week.

We see the percentage of outpatients' visits for influenza-like illnesses (proven influenza cases and not tested but similar cases) in 2025 and the beginning of 2026, compared to the last few years. The current outbreak is represented by a dark red line that is higher than in previous years and is expected to continue rising with the start of school this week.

Whooping cough cases are sweeping in the U.S., with tens of thousands infected and at least 13 people dead from the bacterial infection this year. While the infection rate is lower than last year, it remains above typical prepandemic years, and the number of deaths has risen. The respiratory infection, also known as pertussis, is characterized by a severe, violent cough that can leave peopleespecially infantsstruggling to breathe. Although rarely fatal, its lingering symptoms have earned it the moniker of the 100-day cough.

The toy drive is part of several holiday events at NYU Langone family health centers and community school-based programs, aimed at brightening the season for about 5,500 children who might otherwise go without gifts. In total, NYU Langone plans to distribute more than 5,400 educational gifts to children up to age 14 across its family health center locations, as well as its hospital campuses in Brooklyn and on Long Island. The health system is also distributing coats and food to adults at one of its centers.

Older adults, infants and toddlers, and people with chronic medical conditions are most at-risk for complications associated with the illness. SFDPH recommended the 2025-2026 shot for anyone over six months old who has not already received it. Experts usually suggest that people get their shot in the fall, ahead of the coming season's peak. You can find access to a vaccine here, and many local pharmacies accommodate walk-ins.