At this time the majority of hospitalized cases for respiratory illness throughout the state are flu-related. Both reported flu cases and flu hospitalizations have risen dramatically over the past 2 weeks, according to the NYS Department of Health.
Wildfires, no longer limited to the traditional wildfire season, create significant adverse health effects and make it difficult for healthcare facilities to provide safe, clean air for their staff and patients to breathe.
While there have not yet been any reported human cases of avian influenza in New York State, it is important that nurses be prepared to safely care for potential patients.
As frontline healthcare workers, nurses are at high risk of exposure to infectious diseases, including novel pathogens that result in hospitalization. NYSNA’s health and safety representatives are committed to educating and advocating for our members to improve the health and safety of nurses and our patients.