Flu, norovirus cases skyrocket in NYC — and the real number of sick likely 'much higher' than reported
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It’s the Sick Apple.

In New York City, there was a 159% increase in norovirus infections last month compared to the previous year. Additionally, flu cases have risen by almost 25% in 2025 according to data from the city’s Department of Health.

There were 1,264 norovirus cases last month in Gotham, compared to 488 in December 2023.


People entering the subway at Times Square during rush hour on the first day of phase one reopening after the coronavirus lockdown in New York City.
The number of cases is likely much higher than what is being captured in the data. Getty Images

The first two weeks of 2025 brought a 30% increase in norovirus infections, with 343 cases as of Jan. 11, compared to 263 in the same period last year, the data show.

The number of norovirus cases is “likely much higher” than what’s reported by clinical labs, since not every infected individual gets tested, a DOH spokesperson said.

The bug, also known as the stomach flu, usually causes vomiting and diarrhea but in rare cases can lead to death. Experts suggest staying home when sick and washing hands regularly to stop its spread.

Meanwhile, flu is also on the rise across the five boroughs.

Nearly 15,000 New Yorkers tested positive for influenza in the week ending Jan. 11, marking a 10% increase over the previous week — and a 23% climb in cases so far this year, according to the data. 


Young woman at home with hand over mouth, suffering from nausea due to food poisoning
There were more than 1,200 cases of norovirus last month, up from 488 in December of 2023. New Africa – stock.adobe.com

One child has died from the influenza since the beginning of flu season in October, down from the three flu-related pediatric deaths logged at this point last year, according to the agency.

The city doesn’t track flu- or norovirus-associated deaths among adults.

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