Flu Shot Campaign Hits Snag as Public Reluctance Grows
As the respiratory virus season begins, marked by an earlier flu season, health officials are urging vaccination against influenza and COVID-19. While many seniors are eager to receive their shots, a growing trend of vaccine hesitancy is impacting overall flu vaccination rates, prompting calls for greater public awareness and access to protection.
Long Island and the broader United States are currently entering the respiratory virus season, a period typically seeing a rise in cases of influenza, COVID-19, and RSV, usually peaking in December and January. However, this year’s flu season appears to be starting earlier than usual, with New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald noting a quicker shift from sporadic to regional case spread.
Amidst this early onset, the importance of vaccination is underscored by individuals like Manuel Vasquez, a 78-year-old landscaper from Valley Stream with asthma. Vasquez, who suffered lung damage from an early COVID-19 infection, proactively received his updated influenza and COVID-19 vaccines from Mount Sinai South Nassau hospital’s Vaxmobile. He recounted severe breathing difficulties and inhaler dependency when he previously skipped flu vaccinations, emphasizing his commitment to preventing severe illness.
Despite the clear health benefits, experts are observing a concerning trend of vaccine hesitancy, which, initially associated with COVID-19 and certain childhood vaccinations, is now affecting flu shot rates. While seniors often show strong interest in getting vaccinated, overall flu vaccination rates have declined. CDC estimates indicate a drop from 52.1% for those over 6 months in 2020-21 to 43.8% in 2025-26. Dr. James McDonald acknowledged a year-over-year decrease in current vaccination rates but expressed cautious optimism, noting that many people typically get their flu shots in October and November.
Dr. Aaron Glatt, chief of infectious diseases at Mount Sinai South Nassau hospital, highlighted the severe impact of influenza, stating that tens of thousands of Americans die annually from the flu, with the majority being unvaccinated. Last season alone, New York recorded over 445,000 lab-confirmed flu cases and 16 influenza-associated pediatric deaths. Dr. Glatt stressed that vaccinating both children and adults is crucial for protecting elderly household members, and while vaccinated individuals might still contract the flu, their symptoms are typically much milder.
The growing culture of vaccine skepticism in the U.S., partly fueled by pandemic-era recommendations and mandates, has been noted by health experts. Although the CDC has adjusted its COVID-19 vaccine recommendations for a broader population and reduced mandated childhood vaccinations, it continues to strongly recommend the flu vaccine for everyone over the age of 6 months.
Community efforts, such as the Vaxmobile program by Mount Sinai South Nassau, are vital in improving access to vaccines. Abigail Fromm, a registered nurse and director of community education, reported significant interest from seniors in receiving both COVID-19 and flu shots simultaneously, preferring a “one and done” approach. The Vaxmobile’s stop in Hempstead, coordinated with the Hispanic Brotherhood, demonstrated this enthusiasm, with executive director Marguerite Keller observing that the seniors she engages with are very health-conscious and eager to protect themselves.