About
COVID-19, Flu and RSV are contagious respiratory infections that can cause severe illness and hospitalization.
- CDC's Updated Respiratory Virus Guidance - What to do when you are sick (updated 3/1/24)
- Use this chart to learn the differences between COVID-19, Flu and RSV.
Current Conditions
- Use Respiratory Illnesses Data Channel to receive updated data on COVID-19, Flu, and RSV.
- Use COVID-19 Data in New York to find updated data sources related to testing, hospitalization, fatalities, and vaccination for COVID-19.
- Use NYS Flu Tracker to compare current and previous seasons.
Prevention
Vaccines are a safe and effective way to prevent these infections. If you are eligible, talk with your healthcare provider or pharmacist about getting immunized.
Who is eligible?
- Staying Up to Date with COVID-19 vaccines: Everyone ages 6 months and older should get a 2024–2025 COVID-19 vaccine.
- Flu Vaccine: Everyone 6 months and older should receive a yearly flu vaccine.
- RSV Vaccine: The CDC recommends immunizations to protect infants, some young children, and older adults.
Where to find your free COVID-19 vaccine this season:
- HRSA-supported health centers provide care to patients regardless of their ability to pay. Most health centers have 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccines available and adjust their fees based on income and family size.
Other ways to protect yourself and your loved ones against these viruses include:
- Washing hands and improving airflow in the places where people live and work are important to lowering risk from respiratory viruses.
- Everyday actions like masking and physical distancing can provide an additional layer of protection.
- Tests are available that can quickly detect these respiratory viruses so patients don’t delay treatment and other actions that can protect their family, friends, and coworkers.
Covidtests.gov The federal government is offering free COVID-19 tests for every household. Order your 4 free at-home COVID-19 tests.
What to do if you get sick
CDC recommends you stay home and away from others until at least 24 hours after both your symptoms are getting better overall, and you have not had a fever (and are not using fever-reducing medication). Resume normal activities and use added prevention strategies over the next five days.
For more information
Centers for Disease Control (CDC) - COVID-19
Centers for Disease Control (CDC) - Influenza (Flu)
Centers for Disease Control (CDC) - RSV
- Symptoms & Care
- Prevention
- Transmission
- Infants & Young Children
- Older Adults & Adults with Chronic Medical Conditions