Health department reports sharp increase in Pueblo County flu cases

The Pueblo City-County Health Department says 36 people have been hospitalized with Influenza in the county since October.

One school and seven long term assisted living facilities have been hit especially hard.

“Flu cases are occurring a month earlier than last year in Pueblo,” said Dr. Christine Nevin-Woods, public health director at the Pueblo City-County Health Department. “The majority of the cases are in individuals over 65 years old, however the cases included children and middle-aged persons-patient’s ages range from 1 week to 91 years old,” she said.

The health department says it is working with the affected assisted living facilities to slow the spread of the illness.

Nevin-Woods said it’s not too late to get a flu shot. She said getting the vaccine will help protect you, your family and the most vulnerable people in the community.

Individuals who have underlying health conditions such as cancer, immunosuppression, heart disease, diabetes, asthma or chronic lung disease or are pregnant should contact their doctor as soon as possible after developing flu symptoms. Take the anti-viral drug if your doctor prescribes it.

Symptoms of the flu start suddenly and may include:

Fever Headache Tiredness (can be extreme) Cough
Sore throat Runny or stuffy nose Body aches Chills and fatigue

“When you experience symptoms of the flu, stay home until 24-hours after your fever is gone, without the help of fever reducing medicines,” encouraged Nevin-Woods. This limits the spread of the virus.

Flu vaccine is available in Pueblo. Individuals with insurance are encouraged to check with their physician or local pharmacy for flu vaccine. Individuals with no insurance may contact the health department, which has a limited supply of flu vaccine, and is available for a $12 administration fee. No one is turned away for inability to pay. Appointments are needed; call the Health Department’s clinic at 583-4380.

For additional protection during cold and flu season, wash your hands often, cover your cough, stay home (and keep children home) when you are sick until at least 24 hours after fever ends.

Take three steps to prevent the flu:

1) Get your flu vaccine.

Visit your doctor or pharmacist to get the latest flu vaccine.

2) Take everyday actions to stop the spread of germs.

Cough or sneeze into a tissue or a sleeve. Wash your hands frequently (with soap and water for at least 20 seconds). Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

3) Stay home if you are sick with flu symptoms.

Stay home (and keep children home) when you are sick until at least 24 hours after fever ends. Take anti-viral drugs if your doctor prescribes them.