New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald declared that influenza (flu) is now prevalent in New York State. The declaration requires healthcare facilities and agencies ensure that their personnel who have not received this year’s flu vaccine wear masks in areas where patients and residents may be present. “The declaration that flu is prevalent across the state means healthcare facilities and agencies must require that personnel who are not vaccinated against the flu wear a mask to avoid exposing patients and residents to the flu virus,” State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said. “The flu vaccine is the best way to protect against infection and lessens symptoms if you get the flu. I encourage everyone 6 months and older to get a flu shot, and it’s not too late to protect yourself and your loved ones.” The declaration requires healthcare and residential care facilities and agencies regulated by the State Health Department ensure personnel who are unvaccinated for flu wear surgical or procedure masks during those times when influenza is declared prevalent in New York State. The regulations allow for the removal of masks when healthcare workers are accompanying patients in the community, providing speech therapy services, or communicating with persons who lip read.