Orange County Health Commissioner Dr. Cortland Lohff is urging residents to get their 2026-27 flu and COVID-19 vaccines before respiratory viruses begin spreading more widely.

Nearly 27,000 New Yorkers were hospitalized with flu and nearly 600 died during the 2025-26 respiratory illness season, while more than 13,000 were hospitalized with COVID-19 and nearly 500 died, according to the state Department of Health.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends annual flu vaccination for everyone 6 months and older. COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for most children and adults, with particular importance for people at higher risk, including pregnant and immunocompromised individuals. Older adults, pregnant people and families with infants should also ask their health care providers about RSV protection.

Vaccines are available at participating pharmacies and health care providers. Residents can find vaccination locations at vaccinefinder.org.

Orange County Department of Health clinics also offer flu and COVID vaccinations to uninsured children and adults. Information is available at Orange County Immunization Clinics or by calling 845-862-6647.