Nasty bug flu the coop

ALBANY — For the first time since before Christmas, influenza is no longer deemed prevalent in New York State.

State Health Commissioner Howard Zucker made the announcement Thursday as one of the worst flu seasons in years winds down.

Overall, 128,000 lab-confirmed flu cases have been reported, with more than 23,000 people being hospitalized.

The flu has been blamed for the deaths of six children this season.