By Matthew Hersh
While the flu and other respiratory illnesses remain low early in the flu season, a recent increase in flu and patients seeking related medical attention is on the rise, according to the latest data from the New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH). This increase has resulted in local health care providers and experts proactively reminding the community how to best prevent the infection and spread of respiratory illnesses.
COVID-19 and RSV rates have been steadily low, but rates of flu and patients seeking care rose modestly, but quickly, in the last week of November. Reported cases of norovirus are also on the rise in 2025, which have already outpaced those reported last year, according to state data. Symptoms of the so-called “stomach flu,” which is unrelated to influenza, are vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, stomach pain, fever, and headaches.
Although the NJDOH reported just over 100 patients admitted to hospitals throughout the state, the increase in emergency room visits and those seeking patient care prompted Hackensack Meridian Health to require masking. The hospital announced last week that all visitors must wear masks when visiting admitted patients.
Princeton Medical Center and other regional hospitals have not taken similar steps, but hospitals, and local and state officials are taking additional precautions to stop the spread of respiratory illnesses this season.
“Right now we are starting to see an increase in levels take off, which is typical right after Thanksgiving because we have a lot of travel for get-togethers, and influenza has started to take off in the last week and a half, which is why you’re seeing more health care facilities take additional measures,” said Princeton Health Officer Jeffrey Grosser.
The best response to an oncoming flu season? “If you haven’t gotten your flu shot yet, it’s not too late,” he said.
“Every winter, we encourage community members to take steps to protect themselves from the flu and other seasonal illnesses,” said Dr. Craig Gronczewski, chief medical officer at Penn Medicine Princeton Health. “If you’re not feeling well, especially if you have a fever or a new cough, consider seeking medical
attention — and avoid exposing others
during the first few days of illness, when you’re most contagious.”
New Jersey’s latest respiratory illness data falls on the heels of the launch state’s coordinated effort to enhance availability and access to COVID-19 and flu vaccines. The NJDOH announced that COVID-19 and flu vaccine clinics will be hosted at locations across the state for children ages 6 months and older. These clinics will provide no-cost vaccinations, regardless of insurance status.
In September, the state announced that it would allow anyone 6 months of age and older to receive a COVID-19 vaccine for the 2025-2026 respiratory illness season. Gov. Phil Murphy also authorized New Jersey pharmacists to administer COVID-19 immunizations without a prescription.
The lead-up to the flu season has been about prevention, Grosser said, and communities will likely benefit from any additional actions taken to prevent the spread of illnesses. “We always advocate for a multilayered approach when it comes to prevention or reducing respiratory infections,” he said.
Receiving the annual flu vaccine is at the top of the list, Grosser said, but also pointed to tried-and-true best practices that were so heavily emphasized during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Good hygiene always remains essential,” he said. “Handwashing, coughing into the crook of one’s arm, and avoiding touching one’s face can all effectively reduce illness transmission.” Grosser added that people should avoid contact with others if they do develop flu symptoms.
Health experts are also warning travelers and those potentially exposed to illness to be particularly cautious around older adults, newborns, and people receiving treatments that weaken the immune system.
“Good hygiene is key,” said Gronczewski. “Wash your hands often, avoid touching your face or rubbing your eyes, and cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. Wearing a mask is also an effective way to reduce the risk of contracting and spreading respiratory illnesses.”
For more on the state’s efforts to increase vaccine access and for clinic locations, go to nj.gov/health.