Health authorities nationwide are raising concerns over a surge in respiratory illnesses, prompting the Westchester County Department of Health to issue an urgent call for winter vaccinations.

Amid increased risks, particularly for individuals over 60, officials stress the importance of receiving vaccinations against COVID-19, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

While current COVID-19 cases might not match previous peaks, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports a concerning statistic – a weekly average of 1,000 deaths and 15,000 hospitalizations due to the virus. Concurrently, respiratory virus cases, particularly among children, are on the rise. RSV is identified as a significant contributor to hospitalizations in this demographic.

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