El Paso County Public Health launches new flu data dashboard
EL PASO COUNTY, Colo. (KRDO)-- Flu season is here, and El Paso County Public Health is launching a new flu data dashboard to provide easy access to relevant local flu data. The dashboard is designed to update every Monday with a snapshot of flu activity in the community. The dashboard will track overall flu hospitalizations, and pediatric deaths while comparing this season to prior years.
So far, the flu data dashboard has tallied one hospitalization and zero pediatric deaths.
“We are excited to offer this new resource for the public and our community partners,” said Natalia Gayou, epidemiologist for El Paso County Public Health. “In addition to COVID-19, tracking respiratory illnesses like flu is critical to efficiently monitor and identify disease trends in the community. It’s important to note that flu hospitalizations and pediatric deaths only capture a snapshot of disease activity representing the most severe illness. We know that flu is circulating, and it’s important to take steps to protect yourself and your loved ones. Although flu season is different every year, with an unprecedented early start to RSV season, we anticipate an increase in respiratory illnesses this season. We are urging anyone 6 months of age and older to get a flu shot.”
Although flu cases can occur year-round, flu season commonly begins as early as October and can occur as late as May.
“The new dashboard will offer local information about flu trends in El Paso County,” said Susan Wheelan, director of El Paso County Public Health. “In the midst of the ongoing pandemic, our goal continues to be providing the public with credible data and information to help people make informed decisions for themselves and their families and to provide easily accessible resources such as flu vaccine.”
Flu symptoms can look a lot like other respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19. Symptoms usually include a high fever, headache, fatigue, cough, sore throat, body aches, and digestion issues. Those most at risk for developing flu-related complications are children under 2, the elderly, pregnant women, or people with chronic respiratory disease or who have weakened immune systems.
You can avoid getting the flu by getting a shot, frequently washing your hands and practicing good hygiene.
Find a flu shot in El Paso County by visiting www.elpasocountyhealth.org or calling (719) 578-3199. El Paso County Public Health’s mobile vaccination van is also available to provide flu shots at worksites, schools, community events, and more. To request a van at your location, please submit this form.
To find a flu vaccine near you, regardless of what county you live in, call Pikes Peak United Way’s 2-1-1- information and referral hotline or visit www.vaccinefinder.org.
