Infectious Disease
Infectious diseases are illnesses caused by germs, such as viruses or bacteria. They can spread through people, food, water, or insects.
Core actions
- Keep recommended vaccines up to date Follow NYC Health advice for the specific disease or outbreak.
- Stay home when sick and wash hands often For respiratory illness, use a well-fitting mask around others and improve airflow when safe.
- Ask a healthcare provider early about testing and treatment, especially if you have a higher risk of serious illness
- Severe trouble breathing or another medical emergency? Call 911.
Respiratory illness in New York City right now
Respiratory illness visits in New York City are increasing 8.7% of emergency department visits compared to 8.6% last week
Respiratory illness hospitalizations in New York City are increasing 7.14% of emergency department visits compared to 6.92% last week
Start here
- Prevent and treat respiratory infections NYC Health Current advice on COVID-19, flu, and RSV, including vaccines, masks, and treatment. Translated factsheets.
- Find vaccines near you NYC Health Map Search vaccine services. Confirm vaccine availability, age eligibility, cost, and hours with the provider.
- Talk to an urgent care clinician remotely NYC Health + Hospitals Virtual ExpressCare 24/7 phone or video care. Call 631-397-2273; financial assistance is available. Phone and video language assistance.
More help
- Look up a disease and how it spreads New York State Health Department Disease facts, symptoms, and prevention. Use NYC alerts for instructions during a local outbreak.
- Find low-cost City health clinics NYC Health Immunization, sexual health, and tuberculosis services, regardless of immigration status. Services and charges vary by clinic.
- Get healthcare if you are uninsured NYC Care Affordable care through NYC Health + Hospitals for eligible NYC residents. Call 646-692-2273; immigration status is no barrier. Interpreters and translated materials.
- Find community healthcare in Flushing Charles B. Wang Community Health Center Primary and preventive care, insurance help, and discounts based on income. Multilingual staff; confirm your language when booking.
- Find community healthcare in southeast Queens Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center Primary and preventive care in Jamaica, Arverne, and Far Rockaway. Ask about costs and language help.
- Check emergency medicine distribution information NYC Health Medicine or vaccines at temporary POD sites only when activated. Follow official locations; PODs do not treat people already sick.
- Learn about time off when you are sick NYC DCWP Protected time off for covered workers, including illness. Check current rules and reporting options. Translated worker materials.
- Korean Community Services health navigation Korean Community Services Bayside-based nonprofit: health coverage, education, and care connections. Call 718-939-6137. Language support for Korean and Asian American communities; confirm your language.