New York State Department of Health Urges New Yorkers to Get Updated Covid Vaccine Ahead of Holiday Gatherings as Reported Immunizations Lag Behind Last Year

Vaccination Uptake in 2025 Has Decreased Nearly 30 Percent Compared to Same Time Last Year

New Yorkers can Protect Themselves and Loved Ones from COVID as Families Prepare for Thanksgiving and Other Holiday Gatherings

Vaccination Remains Best Protection Against Serious Illness and Death from COVID

ALBANY, N.Y. (November 4, 2025) – The New York State Department of Health today urged New Yorkers, especially older adults and those at higher risk, to get the updated COVID vaccine as reported vaccination uptake in 2025 is significantly lower than this time last year. With Thanksgiving just a few weeks away and other holidays right around the corner, vaccination is especially important to protect against COVID and other respiratory illness as families start to make plans to travel and gather indoors.

According to Department data, approximately 850,000 doses have been administered statewide since August 29. During the same period in 2024, approximately 1.2 million doses were administered, representing a decrease in doses administered by nearly 30 percent compared to this time last year. Among adults aged 65 and older, who face the highest risk of severe illness and death from COVID, doses administered decreased nearly 25 percent when compared to levels during the same period in 2024.

"New York data from 2024 demonstrate COVID had a more significant impact on us than flu," State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said. "Last year 2,775 New Yorkers died related to COVID, and 766 died related to flu. In other words, for every one person who died related to flu, almost four died related to COVID. Last year, over 50,000 New Yorkers ended up in the hospital related to COVID and over 21,000 related to flu. COVID was more serious than flu and I expect will be the same this year as well. Vaccination remains the best protection against serious illness and death from COVID."

The Department noted that most vaccinations are being administered in pharmacies, highlighting the importance of access and convenience in improving uptake. Parents are reminded that children under three years old cannot receive COVID vaccines at pharmacies and should contact a health care provider.

The Department continues to work with local health officials, providers and community partners to expand vaccine access and ensure New Yorkers understand the importance of staying protected as respiratory illness season continues.

More information about COVID vaccines is available here.