Flu season is here, and COVID-19 is still circulating. Your local hospitals and health departments remind you to stay healthy and get vaccinated against COVID-19 and influenza this winter. Vaccination greatly reduces your chance of contending with these viruses, and is recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Vaccines are widely available at hospitals, pharmacies, local health departments, clinics, Federally Qualified Health Centers and other locations in our regions.
These resources are brought to you by the Suburban Hospital Alliance of NYS and the New York State Association of County Health Officials on behalf of your local hospitals and local health departments.
For COVID-19: 2025-2026 COVID-19 vaccine guidance from the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) is available. Vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older. On October 3, 2025, Governor Hochul extended an Executive Order to ensure all New Yorkers can easily receive the updated 2025-26 COVID-19 vaccine without a prescription. The Executive Order declares an emergency that overrides recent federal actions that restrict vaccine access.
For Influenza (Flu): According to the NYSDOH, everyone 6 months of age and older should get a flu shot every year as soon as the vaccine is available, with rare exceptions. If you are at higher risk of developing serious flu complications, flu vaccination is especially important.