Flu cases in New York have dropped for the seventh week in a row, recording a 34% decrease over last week, state Department of Health officials on Monday announced. 

There has been a total of nine pediatrict deaths in the state attributed to influenza this season, including one last week, health officials said. 

“It’s important to remember that, despite the decline in flu cases across the State, flu season is a long one, generally lasting through the spring, so it’s important to continue to take precautions against infection,” acting state Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said. “The best defense against becoming seriously ill and spreading the virus is a flu shot. Fortunately, it’s not too late to get one and I encourage everyone to do so as soon as possible.”

State health officials reported there were 2,937 cases of flu reported as of the week ending Jan. 28 as well as 304 people hospitalized in New York. Hospitalizations have dropped by 35% over the previous week. 

Flu case counts have been closely watched by state and local public health officials this winter amid concerns over a rise in COVID-19 as well as respiratory syncytial virus in children.