Staying Healthy This Flu Season

With flu season approaching, the CDC and health experts are advising to get a plan in place for a flu shot this fall. This year brings the threat of dual pandemics, or a “twindemic,” of both COVID-19 and seasonal flu. Ensuring you have an influenza immunization will better prepare you for a healthy winter season.

Pitkin County Public Health is starting outreach now, and coordinating with Community Health Services for flu shot clinics by appointment starting this month. Public Health is advocating for increased influenza vaccination coverage rates in our community to protect our healthcare system and residents from the additional stress and surge of influenza hospitalizations. This is particularly important considering that the impact of co-infection with flu and COVID viruses is unknown.

Adults over 65 tend to face the largest burden of severe flu disease. Some of this risk can be mitigated by vaccination, which has been shown to consistently reduce the risk of hospitalizations and medical visits. Discuss your prevention plan with your doctor, and explore the availability of flu shots in our area by visiting VaccineFinder.