New Yorkers with symptoms of the flu can talk with a nurse by calling the NYC FluLine. Just dial 311!

Through this service, 311 operators will provide New Yorkers with information on what to do if they or a family member feels sick with flu-like illness (fever with cough or sore throat). Callers with symptoms of influenza will be connected to registered nurses, who will provide information and advice on whether to seek care.

For patients who don't have or can't reach a regular health care provider, NYC FluLine is an alternative to going to a hospital emergency department. The call-center nurses will not make diagnoses or prescribe treatments, but they will advise callers about whether to see a doctor or stay home. When necessary, on-call nurses will refer people to clinics, which offer treatment and prevent unnecessary visits to emergency departments.

For more information about the seasonal or H1N1 flu or the flu vaccine, visit nyc.gov/flu.