Zero influenza hospitalizations reported across El Paso and Fremont County
EL PASO COUNTY, Colo. (KRDO) -- Flu season normally occurs in the fall and winter months, with peak activity between December and February, but can last at late as May.
As COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations continue to rise, KRDO reached out to county Health Departments to get a gauge on the latest influenza cases and hospitalizations.
According to the El Paso County Department of Public Health and Environment, there are no influenza hospitalizations to date this flu season. Health officials tell KRDO that flu may be circulating in our community, just not at a level severe enough to require hospitalizations at this point in time.
Officials clarify that it's still relatively early in the flu season, and it's encouraged to get a flu shot if someone hasn't already.
Taking a look at last year's data, El Paso County reported more than 10 hospitalizations from influenza from the state of flu season until late November 2019. Those numbers have a seen a decline at the start of this flu season, but numbers could change in the coming months when peak season arrives.
Fremont County also reports no hospitalizations or deaths so far this flu season, since September 1st of this year.
Overall in Colorado, there have been 8 hospitalizations due to the flu since the start of the season until November 21st, 2020, which includes no outbreaks in long-term care facilities, nor pediatric deaths. State data can be found here: https://cdphe.colorado.gov/influenza.
The CDC recommends receiving a flu vaccination in September or October to provide the greatest protection throughout the flu season. However, the flu shot can benefit those who receive their shot later in the season as well. Flu vaccines reduce the risk of contracting flu and spreading it to others.
El Paso County Public Health’s Immunization Clinic has flu vaccine available. Prices vary depending on health care coverage. Appointments are encouraged; to make an appointment or to inquire about prices, call (719) 578-3199.
Fremont County has a drive-thru Vaccination Clinic planned for next Sunday, starting at 11:00am.
To locate a flu vaccine near you, call the contact Pikes Peak United Way's Referral Hotline at 2-1-1 or call your doctor or pharmacy. To find a vaccine near you, visit https://vaccinefinder.org/.
