The New York Department of Health says the flu is now "prevalent" in the state, meaning more than 1,000 cases have been reported so far.

Dr. John Zaso, of East Meadow, says the flu isn't as bad as this time last year, when it reached epidemic proportions. But he says he's seeing about 80 percent of children who were not vaccinated coming down with the flu.

Lisa Prastos and her boys paid a visit to their East Meadow pediatrician on Wednesday. She says her family gets the flu shot every year. Stavros Prasto, who's nearly 7 years old, says the shot was worth it for the lollipop he got.

News 12 also spoke with Michael Marolda, of Laurel Hollow, who says he doesn't get a flu shot. Instead, he says he washes his hands often and exercises.

The state Regulation for Prevention of Influenza Transmission is currently in effect. It requires health care workers who work in certain facilities and have not been vaccinated to wear masks. They could lose their jobs for failing to do so.