New York State Department of Health Urges Nursing Homes to Increase COVID-19 Vaccinations to Protect Vulnerable Residents

Department Issues Reminder to Facilities on the Importance of Vaccination and Infection Prevention Measures

ALBANY, N.Y. (October 30, 2025) – The New York State Department of Health today urged nursing homes and adult care facilities to take immediate steps to increase COVID-19 vaccination among residents, as updated data show that just under half of residents statewide are currently up to date with the latest vaccine.

There are more than 98,000 nursing home residents across New York State. As of October 2025, 46 percent of residents are up to date on their COVID-19 vaccinations, and more than 4,800 vaccine doses were administered to residents last week alone.

The Department issued a Dear Administrator Letter this week to all nursing home operators, emphasizing their responsibility to offer the updated vaccine to residents and staff, consistent with State and federal guidance.

"There are over 98,000 residents in our nursing homes, and just under half are up to date with the COVID vaccine," said State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald. "As we enter the respiratory illness season, now is the best time to get vaccinated and achieve the strongest protection against COVID. Nursing home residents are particularly vulnerable to severe illness and death from COVID-19. Nursing homes are required to offer the vaccine to residents, and it is up to them and their families if they accept it. Clearly, the benefit of immunization outweighs the risk."

COVID-19 continues to cause preventable illness and death among older adults and individuals with weakened immune systems. Vaccination remains the most effective way to reduce the risk of severe outcomes, hospitalization, and mortality.

In 2024, there were 349 COVID-related deaths among nursing home residents, underscoring the importance of continued vigilance. The Department's Office of Aging and Long-Term Care is working closely with facilities to improve vaccination rates and strengthen infection prevention practices ahead of the winter season.

For information on the 2025–2026 COVID-19 vaccine and guidance for long-term care facilities, visit COVID-19 | Department of Health.