New York City’s Health Department is urging clinicians to prescribe antiviral medications to all high-risk or severely ill patients suspected of having the flu.

It’s also urging New Yorkers who have flu-like symptoms and are at a higher risk for complications to ask their doctors about the medications.

The department has distributed posters and patient flyers to emergency rooms, outpatient clinics and urgent care centers throughout the city.

Health Commissioner Dr. Mary Bassett says antiviral medications can help reduce complications in young children, seniors, pregnant women and other high-risk groups.

(AP)