MEDINA – Orleans Community Health Foundation’s annual spring gala will honor two former distinguished residents whose dedication and leadership have significantly strengthened healthcare in the Medina and Orleans County community.

The 1950s-themed “Spring Soiree Gala” from 6 to 10 p.m. March 14 at Bent’s Opera House will feature an elegant evening of refined hors d’oeuvres, crafted cocktails, live musical entertainment and dancing, all in support of patient care and healthcare services at Orleans Community Health.

A highlight of the evening will be presentation of the 2026 Bowen Awards recognizing Dr. Arthur Mruczek and Barbara Waters.

Dr. Mruczek will be honored for his decades of service as a respected ophthalmologist and former medical director of Medina Memorial Hospital. Throughout his career, Dr. Mruczek has demonstrated exceptional clinical skill, integrity and compassion in the care of his patients.

His leadership within the hospital and medical community has contributed meaningfully to advancing quality care close to home. Generations of families in the region have benefitted from his commitment o excellence and his steady, thoughtful guidance.

Waters will be recognized for her visionary leadership and enduring advocacy for seniors and community healthcare. As the founder of The Willows Adult Home and Orchard Manor Nursing Home, she expanded essential senior living services in Medina, ensuring that older adults could remain in their community with dignity and support.

Through her longstanding service on the Medina Memorial Hospital Board of Directors, Waters has played a vital role in shaping the direction and strength of local healthcare services. Her dedication has had a lasting impact on care accessibility and quality throughout the region.

The Bowen Award is named after George Bowen, the founder of Medina Memorial Hospital more than 100 years ago, and honors individuals whose professional achievements and community leadership exemplify service, compassion and an unwavering commitment to the well-being of others, according to Scott Robinson, director of Marketing at Orleans Community Health and great-great-grandson of Bowen.

“The 2026 recipients reflect these values through their lifetime contributions to healthcare in Orleans County,” Robinson said.

“The gala is an opportunity for our community to come together to not only celebrate two remarkable leaders, but to reaffirm our shared commitment to ensuring exceptional healthcare remains accessible close to home,” said Megan Johnson, executive director of the Orleans Community Health Foundation. “Dr. Mruczek and Mrs. Waters have each shaped the future of care in profound ways. We are honored to recognize their legacy and invite the community to join us for what promises to be a truly special evening.”

The evening will feature live crooner-style musical entertainment during the awards presentation, followed by a DJ reception designed to encourage guests to remain and enjoy the celebration, according to Johnson. Attendees are encouraged to wear cocktail or semi-formal attire with a subtle 1950’s influence.

Tickets are $150 per person. Proceeds from the event will directly support local patient care and essential services provided by Orleans Community Health.

For ticket purchases or sponsorship opportunities, visit OrleansCommunityHealth.org/gala.

Provided photo: Six of the seven new board members of Orleans Community Health Foundation posed for a picture shortly after their election. From left are Kenny Bieber, Danielle Figura, Andrew Meier, Lisa Christiaansen, Jesse Cudzillo and Elizabeth Landis. Missing from photo is Jeff Pasnik.

MEDINA – Orleans Community Health Foundation has elected seven new members to its board of directors for the 2026-2028 term.

“These individuals bring a broad range of professional expertise, community insight and a shared commitment to advancing health and wellness across Orleans County,” said Scott Robinson, director of Marketing for Orleans Community Health.

The newly appointment board members are Andrew Meier, business owner and attorney at Webster, Schubel and Meier; Lisa Christiaansen, co-owner of Mark’s Pizzeria; Jeff Pasnik, Council representative of North Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters; Kenny Beiber, owner of Weed Man; Danielle Figura, director of Orleans County Mental Health Department; Jesse Cudzilo, CEO of Reneu Wellness Club and former director of the Orleans County YMCA; and Elizabeth Landis, assistant vice president of human resources at GOBEL.

Meier brings expertise in elder law, legal services, grant writing and a strong focus on the aging population. His strengths include fundraising and deep community connections.

Christiaansen offers a strong focus on services for families and the school population, with strengths in community outreach and local engagement.

Pasnik is focused on supporting services and families and is known for his active participation in community events and outreach efforts.

Beiber brings a valuable perspective on outreach to underserved areas, helping ensure the Foundation remains inclusive and responsive to community needs.

Figura collaborates with multiple agencies and organizations and brings strengths in identifying and supporting potential grant opportunities.

 Cudzilo contributes a focus on wellness and engagement with health and wellness initiatives throughout the community.

Landis brings professional expertise in human resources and organizational leadership. She is also an active member of the Rotary Club of Medina, further strengthening the Foundation’s connection to community service and civic engagement.

“These new directors reflect the diversity, dedication and expertise of the communities we serve,” said Megan Johnson, executive director of the Orleans Community Health Foundation. “Their collective strengths will help guide the Foundation’s mission and expand its impact across Orleans County.”

New board members join existing members – Jeanne Crane, president; Gloria Snyder, vice president; Clark Godshall, treasurer; Pamela Canham, secretary; Shannon Blount governing board chair; Marc Shurtz, OCH president/CEO; Matthew Backlas; Nicole Goyette; Matthew Kennedy; Barbara Outten; Scott Robinson; and Sandra Walter.

The Orleans County Health Foundation looks forward to the leadership and collaboration of its 2026-28 board as it continues to support programs and initiatives that improve the health and well-being of the region.

Orleans CHEFS program funded with grant from Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield

KNOWLESVILLE – A $200,000 grant from Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of Western New York’s Blue Fund secured by Orleans Community Connects (formerly United Way) and Orleans County Cornell Cooperative Extension is funding Orleans CHEFS (Connected Healthy Educated Food Systems.)

Information from Nyla Gaylord, executive director of Orleans Community Connects, says they are excited to partner with CCE Orleans to offer a free six-week Nutrition Education Class Series, starting tomorrow (Feb. 18).

The series is designed to help community members build healthier habits and to better understand the connection between nutrition and overall wellness. Participants who attend all six sessions will receive a free fitness tracker.

The program focuses on how food choices impact blood pressure, cholesterol, physical activity and mindfulness. Each class includes practical, easy-to-use information that can help individuals and families make positive lifestyle changes.

“Supporting healthier living is part of building a stronger community,” said Gaylord. “This series gives residents tools they can use every day – and the fitness tracker adds an extra boost of encouragement to stay active and engaged.”

Classes will take place at 11 a.m. on Feb. 18 and 25, March 4, 11, 18 and 25 at Orleans County Cornell Cooperative Extension.

While classes are free, space is limited and advance registration is required by calling (585) 798-4265 or e-mailing Orleans@cornell.edu.

The program is provided by Cornell Cooperative Extension of Orleans County, an equal opportunity program-accessible employer and educator.

MEDINA – Orleans Community Health has issued a reminder to the community that Friday is Wear Red Day.

“We encourage the community to show their support for heart health by wearing red on Wear Red Day this Friday,” said Scott Robinson, director of marketing at OCH.

This national day of awareness shines a spotlight on heart disease – the leading cause of death for men and women – and encourages everyone to take simple steps toward a healthier heart.

By wearing red, community members help raise awareness, spark conversations and demonstrate a shared commitment to preventing heart disease and stroke. Orleans Community Health is proud to stand with residents, patients and partners in promoting heart-healthy habits that can make a lasting difference, according to Robinson.

Following are simple tips for a healthy heart:

• Stay active by aiming for at least 30 minutes of movement most days of the week.
• Choose heart healthy food, like fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins.
• Manage stress through relaxation, mindfulness or enjoyable activities.
• Know your numbers. Keep an eye on your blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar.
• Don’t smoke and limit alcohol consumption.

“Small lifestyle changes can have a bit impact on heart health,” Robinson said. “Wear Red Day is a great reminder to take care of your heart and encourage loved ones to do the same.”

Everyone is urged on Friday to “Go Red for Heart Health” and help build a healthier community for all.

Press Release, Oak Orchard Health

Gerald Archibald

BROCKPORT – Oak Orchard Health, a leading healthcare provider in rural, upstate New York has announced Jerry Archibald as its Chief Administrative Officer.

Archibald spent 12 years at Arthur Anderson & Co. before joining The Bonadio Group in 1986. Jerry has more than 35 years of experience delivering high‑quality advisory, assurance, compliance, and consulting services to over 300 government-based, tax‑exempt, and healthcare organizations.

In his new role, Archibald will be responsible for overseeing aspects of the company’s finances and operational framework.

He is certified as a Fellow in the Healthcare Financial Management Association and is a Certified Managed Care Professional.

His expertise in the health and human service industries provides him with a unique perspective on all aspects of health and human service delivery systems. He has been involved extensively in health and human service client engagements, which involve the evaluation, assessment, and implementation of operating improvements.

“Jerry brings his exceptional pedigree that is unparalleled in the human services arena. Oak Orchard is lucky to have such a compassionate, intelligent executive join our organization,” said Marco Altieri, CEO.

John Slenker, chairman of the board, said, “With his extensive background and vision for the future, we are confident that he will help lead Oak Orchard to new heights and drive our mission.”

Press Release, Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments

Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health), with funding from the New York State Department of Health, will offer free rabies vaccination clinics for dogs, cats and ferrets in 2026.

Important Information:

• To receive a 3-year certificate for a dog or cat, please bring proof of prior rabies vaccination (metal tags or licenses will not be accepted as proof).

• Ferrets must receive vaccinations annually, regardless of previous immunization.

• All animals must be leashed or crated and kept under control during the clinics.

Why should your pets be vaccinated?

• Protects Your Pet: Rabies is a deadly disease that can affect both animals and humans. Vaccination is the best way to keep your pet safe.

• Protects You, Your Family, and the Community: Rabies can be passed to humans through bites or scratches from infected animals. Vaccinating pets helps prevent outbreaks.

• Required by Law: According to New York State Law, all dogs, cats, and domesticated ferrets must be vaccinated against rabies.

“Rabies continues to be a public health problem in Genesee and Orleans Counties,” stated Paul Pettit, Public Health Director for GO Health. “We remind all residents to keep their animals’ rabies vaccinations up to date.”

Genesee County Rabies Walk-in Clinic at the Batavia Town Highway Garage (3833 West Main Street Road, Batavia, NY 14020)

• Thursday, February 5, from 4 to 6 p.m.

Genesee County Rabies Drive-Thru Clinics at the Genesee County Fairgrounds (5056 East Main Street, Batavia, NY 14020)

• Thursday, May 14, from 3:30 to 6 p.m.
• Thursday, August 13, from 3:30 to 6 p.m.
• Thursday, October 8, from 3:30 to 6 p.m.

Orleans County Rabies Drive-Thru Clinics at the Orleans County Fairgrounds (12690 State Route 31, Albion, NY 14411)

• Saturday, April 25, from 9 to 11:30 a.m.
• Wednesday, June 17, from 3:30 to 6 p.m.
• Wednesday, August 19, from 3:30 to 6 p.m.
• Wednesday, October 7, from 3:30 to 6 p.m.

For more information on GO Health’s programs and services, visit GOHealthNY.org or contact your local health department at:

• Orleans County: 585-589-3278
• Genesee County: 585-344-2580 x5555

Photos courtesy of Scott Robinson: Adrienne Belson, center, activities director and MDS coordinator at Orleans Community Health, sits with residents of the North Wing during a bake sale she helped organize last summer. Belson was one of three North Wing employees recognized during National Activity Professionals Awareness Week.

MEDINA – Orleans Community Health observed National Activity Professionals Week by celebrating the dedicated activity professionals serving residents in the North Wing, along with the community partners who support individuals in long-term care, assisted living and memory care.

Organized by the National Association of Activity Professionals, National Activity Professionals Week is celebrated Jan. 26-30, focusing on the theme “Beyond the Ordinary.” The week recognizes staff who foster independence and joy through meaningful, person-centered engagement, going above and beyond to support cognitive and physical health.

Activities Assistant Angel Mackey helps a North Wing resident paint a pumpkin during a special fall activity. Mackey was another employee who received recognition at OCH this week.

This national observance honors professionals whose creativity, compassion and commitment enhance residents’ emotional, social, cognitive and physical well-being, according to Scott Robinson, director of Marketing at OCH.

“At Orleans Community Health, activity professionals play a vital role in promoting connection, dignity and purpose, ensuring residents continue to live full and meaningful lives,” Robinson said.

Among those recognized are Adrienne Belson, activities director and MDS coordinator; Anna Lewis, activities leader; and Angel Mackey, activities assistant.

Belson, a Lyndonville resident, has served Orleans Community Health for 19 years. She has dedicated her career to the elderly population and emphasizes that activities extend far beyond recreation. Her team builds trusted relationships, provides advocacy, supports residents through life transitions and creates opportunities for continued engagement within the community.

Lewis joined OCH in 2020 and celebrates five years of service this year. Known for her creativity and enthusiasm, Lewis brings versatility to each day and focuses on learning residents’ life stories to better support and individualized care. She encourages community involvement, noting that residents thrive when volunteers share their time and talent.

Angel Mackey, Activities Assistant, is also being highlighted for her compassionate approach. After beginning her career at Medina Memorial Hospital in the dietary department, Mackey transitioned into activities, where she enjoys building meaningful connections with residents. She is currently pursuing a master’s degree in social work and remains deeply committed to making a positive impact.

Orleans Community Health also expressed gratitude to the broader community for its continued support, including fundraising efforts which helped provide transportation for residents’ outings. These experiences allow residents to reconnect with familiar places, memories and traditions, often creating powerful moments of recognition and joy, Robinson said.

“Activity professionals bring life, purpose and connection into each day,” Robinson said. “Their dedication reminds us that quality of life matters at every stage.”

Orleans Community Health extends sincere appreciation to its Activities Department, North Wing care teams, volunteers, families and community partners whose compassion and collaboration continue to enrich the lives of its residents.

Anna Lewis, activities leader at OCH, also recognized during National Activity Professionals Awareness Week. She is shown here with two North Wing residents on a field trip to the lake.

The flu was rampant locally and statewide about a month ago but the confirmed cases have dropped significantly.

State-wide there were 71,123 flu cases during the week ending Dec. 20, the most since the state started doing a weekly tracker of the cases in 2004.

Since then the cases dropped to 49,153 the week ending Dec. 27; 28,554 for the week of Jan. 3; 22,558 the week of Jan. 10; and 12,049 for the week ending Jan. 17.

Locally the cases also have been declining. Orleans County reported an average of 71.4 cases per 100,000 people the week ending Jan. 17. That is down from 126.0 the week of Jan. 10;  204.1 the week of Jan. 3; and 196.5 in the weeks ending Dec. 27 and Dec. 20. (The county’s population is the 2020 census was 40,343.)

Press Release, Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments

Genesee and Orleans counties are excited to share CredibleMind, a new online tool to help residents take care of their mental health and overall well-being.

This platform is offered through a partnership between Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health) and the Genesee and Orleans County Mental Health Departments.

CredibleMind offers easy-to-use, confidential, and trusted resources for anyone, whether they are dealing with stress, anxiety, depression or just want to support their mental wellness.

Residents can explore articles, videos, podcasts and self-check tools on more than 100 topics, including stress, relationships, sleep, mindfulness and grief. The platform works like a personal digital guide, using short assessments to suggest resources that fit each person’s needs and goals. It also helps residents connect with local mental health services.

“Taking care of mental health is an important part of overall health,” said Paul Pettit, Public Health Director of GO Health. “CredibleMind gives people a safe and easy way to get help anytime they need it.”

“We want to make it easier for people to get mental health care,” said Lynda Battaglia, Director of Genesee County Mental Health Department. “CredibleMind lets residents get help in a way that works for them. It can make asking for help less scary and more effective.”

“We want every resident to be able to take care of their mental wellness,” said Danielle Figura, Director of Orleans County Mental Health Department. “This partnership helps our community connect with mental health support, especially for people who may not know where to start.”

Residents can visit CredibleMind at Genesee-OrleansNY.CredibleMind.com to look at trusted resources, take self-checks, and find tools to support their mental health and well-being.

State-wide the number of new cases dropped 43 percent

The number of new confirmed cases has decreased in New York State during the week ending Jan. 3, but the cases went up in Orleans County during that week, especially among those 60 and older.

State-wide, there were 28,554 laboratory-confirmed cases in the week ending Jan. 3, which is down 43 percent from 49,850 cases the previous week. This season there have been 269,433 laboratory-confirmed cases, according to the state Department of Health.

Flu hospitalizations is at 4,228 in the week ending Jan. 3, down 7 percent from 4,546 in previous week. So far this flu season 17,833 people have been hospitalized in New York State.

In Orleans County, the rate of cases is at 353.8 per 100,000 people, according to the Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments. That is up from 181.7 per 100,000 from the previous week, and 76.5 the week ending Dec. 20.

The rate for people ages 0-19 is at 226.1 in the week ending Jan. 3, which is down from 440.4 the previous week and 571.3 the week ending Dec. 20.

Overall, the rate of new confirmed cases in Orleans County is at 204.1 per 100,000 people. (The county’s population is the 2020 census was 40,343.) That 204.1 rate is up from the 196.5 in both the previous two weeks.

While the cases was up slightly in Orleans County, Genesee had a rate of new confirmed cases at 146.7 for the week ending Jan. 3. That was down significantly from the rate of 252 new cases the previous week and 239.9 from the week ending Dec. 20.

While the new cases were down statewide, in Genesee and Orleans counties the new cases increased from 217 for the week ending Dec. 20 to 224 in the week ending Dec. 27, according to the Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments.

In Genesee and Orleans counties the new confirmed cases was 166 for the week ending Jan. 3. That is down from 224 the previous week and 217 for the week ending Dec. 20, according to the local health departments.

Provided photo: The Transitional Care Unit team at Medina Memorial Hospital is celebrating a substantial increase in admissions during the past year.

MEDINA – With a nationwide health care crisis, Medina Memorial Hospital has seen the impacts first-hand right here in Medina, according to Scott Robinson, director of marketing.

As the aging population continues to grow, there are an increasing number of challenges for the community, according to Robinson.

Among them is providing needed care and more services in the immediate area. One of those is the ability for members of the community to have access to rehab close to home. During the last year, the Transitional Care Unit at Medina Memorial hospital has seen admissions increase from 244 in 2024 to 308 in 2025, an increase of 26 percent, while referrals for subacute rehab have increased by 37 percent.

“I think it goes to show the reputation our TCU team has achieved with other hospitals and within the community,” Robinson said.

The hospital’s TCU program supports patients referred from other hospitals, as well as those admitted through Medina hospital’s Emergency Department for acute care or observation, who require subacute rehabilitation. Once a patient is medically stable for subacute rehab, they can be converted to the TCU services.

“We have been able to create relationships with more specialty groups, such as infectious disease and orthopedic physicians, which results in higher referral volumes,” Robinson said.

Robinson added they have a robust team at Orleans Community Health that is working to make sure the care being provided is top notch. The team includes care management, physical therapy, infection control, PCUII (Progressive Care Unit 2nd floor), housekeeping, dietary, finance and others.

“Medina Memorial Hospital continues to build a reputation – it’s the place to go for subacute rehab and the place to go to get better,” said Randi Ingersoll, director of Care Management at Orleans Community Health. “It has been a privilege to provide TCU services to more than 300 community members in 2025, and we are eager to see continued growth here at OCH.”

“The entire team deserves a great deal of credit, as Randi shared,” Robinson said. “She highlights the strong support being provided across teams. Although growth of this nature can challenge operations, departments remain closely aligned to keep things running seamlessly. It speaks volumes about the dedication of everyone involved in providing exceptional care.”

The team celebrated the gains on Wednesday and are coordinating to determine ways they can continue to improve the patient experience for those receiving care at Medina Memorial Hospital’s TCU.

Press Release, Genesee & Orleans County Health Departments

January is Radon Action Month and GO Health (Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments) is encouraging families to test their homes for radon.

Radon Facts:

• Radon is a colorless, odorless gas that can enter homes through cracks in floors, basement walls, foundations, and other openings. It can build up to dangerous levels, especially in winter when homes are closed up.

• Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, and it is the leading cause in people who have never smoked. Exposure to radon is linked to an estimated 21,000 lung cancer deaths each year nationwide.

• In New York State, about 14% of homes have high radon levels that meet or exceed the level where action is recommended by health experts. Genesee County has been identified as an area with a higher average indoor radon level, meaning many homes could have unsafe radon levels.

• Testing and mitigation are effective in reducing radon exposure and protecting the health of your family.

“Testing your home for radon is a quick, easy step that can help protect your family’s health,” stated Darren Brodie, Environmental Health Director for GO Health. “If high radon levels are found, they can be fixed.”

Genesee County residents can get a free radon test kit by calling 585-344-2580 x5555.

Residents in Orleans and other counties can get radon test kits at their local hardware store or online at www.health.ny.gov/environmental/radon/

For more information about radon visit:

• American Lung Association www.lung.org/clean-air/indoor-air/indoor-air-pollutants/radon
• New York State Department of Health www.health.ny.gov/environmental/radon/

For more information about GO Health Programs and Services, visit GOHealthNY.org or contact your local health department at:

• Orleans County: 585-589-3278
• Genesee County: 585-344-2580 ext. 5555

MEDINA – Orleans Community Health has announced it has been awarded a grant from the Garman Family Foundation, administered by the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo, to expand pediatric services, live-saving education and family support programs for children in Orleans County.

The funding will help OCH deliver a holistic and equitable approach to pediatric wellness, addressing critical needs in a rural community where child poverty, limited transportation, high infant mortality rates and a shortage of medical providers continue to impact families. More than 1,500 children and families are expected to benefit within the first year of the initiative, according to information provided by Scott Robinson, director of Marketing for OCH.

“Families in our community deserve access to care and education that protect children’s health and empower parents,” said Megan Johnson, executive director of Orleans Community Health Foundation. “This generous grant allows us to expand resources beyond the clinic walls – bringing safety education, mental health support and essential pediatric equipment directly to the families who need it most.”

The project supported by the Garman Family Foundation will include:

• Free Infant CPR and Newborn Care Classes for parents and caregivers, eliminating the need for families to travel long distances for live-saving training.
• A Pediatric Wellness Fair, offering education and health resources for local families.
• Mental Health and Behavioral Support Tools, including the certification of a pediatric nurse practitioner in the evidence-based COPE (Creating Opportunities for Personal Empowerment) program and the use of anxiety-reducing tools during visits.
• Preventative Child Safety Resources, including helmets, first aid kits and coping tools to reduce emergencies and injuries.
• Important Clinical Upgrades, including pediatric exam tables and an infant warmer for safe and effective care.
• A New Children’s Reading nook and Books Distributed at Well Visits to promote early literacy and development growth.

Leah Brunner, pediatric nurse practitioner who serves children in both OCH’s Medina and Albion offices, shared how the funding will enhance care from the moment the families walk in the door.

“Parents want to feel confident caring for their children, and kids deserve a safe, supportive place to grow,” Brenner said. “With this grant, we can offer families more education, more tools and a more welcoming pediatric environment. It strengthens care for every child who comes through our doors.

The Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo is a 501 ©3 organization whose mission is connecting people, ideas and resources to improve lives in Western New York. Since 1919, they have enhanced and encouraged long-term philanthropy in the Western New York Community.

State-wide the cases decline but hospitalizations are up

The flu continues its rampant spread locally and state-wide. A week ago it was big news in New York when the number of confirmed flu cases was the most since 2004, when the state began to weekly track flu cases.

The number of new flu cases is down a week later, from 72,133 to 49,153. That is a 32 percent drop.

However, the number of people hospitalized by the flu has increased 24 percent from 3,666 a week earlier to 4,546, according to the state Department of Health.

The DOH also is reporting a pediatric death from the flu this week. There have now been two pediatric deaths from the flu thus season, according to the state DOH.

While the new cases were down statewide, in Genesee and Orleans counties the new cases increased from 217 for the week ending Dec. 20 to 224 in the week ending Dec. 27, according to the Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments.

In Genesee and Orleans, both counties show the number of younger people getting the flu is declining, but still high. In Orleans the flu cases for people 0-19 dropped from 571.3 per 100,000 to 440.4, while the cases for people 60 and older went from 76.5 per 100,000 people to 181.7 per 100,000. In Orleans, the overall rate of new flu cases per 100,000 people is 196.5, the same as the previous week.

In Genesee, the cases for 0-19 year olds dropped from 553.9 per 100,000 people for the week ending Dec. 20, to 446.2 for the week ending Dec. 27. The cases for people 60 and older increased from 249.3 to 324.1 during that time period. Genesee’s overall flu rate is at 252 per 100,000 people, up from 239.9 the previous week.

State health officials said flu typically peaks in January so the cases may continue to rise.

The Department of Health encourages people to get the flu shot, and take antivirals if it’s been less than 48 hours since symptoms began.

People are also urged to wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, and avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.

People are advised to stay home when sick, and avoid close contact with people who are ill.

Orleans County has seen a significant spike in the number of flu cases, and statewide the number of the cases is the most since 2004 when the state started doing a weekly tracker of the cases.

The Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments reports there were 217 flu cases in the two rural counties in the week ending Dec. 20.

In Orleans, there are 196 cases per 100,000 people, according to the Health Department online flu tracker. The county’s population totals 40,343, according to the 2020 census. A week earlier, Orleans had 60.5 confirmed cases per 100,000 people.

The 196 cases in the most recent week is the third highest for Orleans County this year, topped by 196.8 for the week ending March 22, and 236.6 in the week ending March 15.

Genesee County just had the most confirmed flu cases in a week this year with 239.9 per 100,000 people for the week ending Dec. 20. (Genesee’s population was 58,388 in the 2020 census.)

That 239.9 is up from 60.4 in the week ending Dec. 13. The previous high was 233.7 for week ending Feb. 15.

State-wide there were 71,123 flu cases last week. That is up 38 percent from the previous week. The state Department of Health reports there have now been 189,312 cases of flu so far this season.

The DOH said hospitalizations from the flu rose 63 percent in the week from 2,251 to 3,666 statewide.

State health officials said flu typically peaks in January so the cases may continue to rise.

The Department of Health encourages people to get the flu shot, and take antivirals if it’s been less than 48 hours since symptoms began.

People are also urged to wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, and avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.

People are advised to stay home when sick, and avoid close contact with people who are ill.