Varicella and RSV Are Now Reportable Conditions in NYS
The New York State Department of Health has announced new reporting requirements for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and varicella. This update mandates the reporting of all laboratory-confirmed cases of RSV in people of any age and RSV-related deaths in individuals under 18. Additionally, all cases of varicella (excluding shingles) must now be reported. These changes aim to enhance the tracking and understanding of these diseases, improving public health responses and vaccine impact assessment. The notification is a crucial call to action for healthcare providers, emphasizing the importance of vigilant reporting to aid in disease monitoring and prevention.