Say Boo to the Flu and COVID-19 this Fall – denvergov.org

Published on October 06, 2022

Spooky season is in full swing and along with ghosts and goblins, the Denver Department of Public Health & Environment (DDPHE) reminds everyone that cooler temperatures could lead to an increase in COVID-19, influenza (flu), and other respiratory diseases.DDPHE has the following recommendations to say boo to respiratory illness before fall celebrations and gatherings get underway.

Carve out time to get vaccinated:

Vaccines arent scary, theyre science!Staying up to date with COVID-19 vaccines and your annual flu shot is the best way to save lives, prevent prolonged sickness and hospitalization. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends COVID-19 vaccines and seasonal flu vaccines for everyone 6 months and older.

According to the CDC, if a patient is eligible, both influenza and COVID-19 vaccines can be administered during the same visit, including boosters. There is no evidence getting a flu vaccination raises the risk of getting sick from COVID-19 or any other virus.

Dont forget your BOO-ster shot:

As fall gatherings head indoors, DDPHE strongly encourages everyone who is eligible to consider receiving an Omicron (bivalent) booster vaccine to provide better protection against currently circulating COVID-19 variants.

Everyone 12 years and older is eligible to receive the updated booster if it has been two months or more since their primary vaccination series or last booster dose.The Colorado Department of Public Health & Environments (CDPHE) vaccine calculator is a good tool for keeping track of COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters. Mass vaccination sites at Ball Arena, Water World and Dick's Sporting Goods Park are back and offer the two new, Omicron (bivalent) booster shots that take aim at the latest variants of COVID-19. Appointments are recommended.

COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective at protecting people from getting seriously ill, being hospitalized, and even dying as new variants continue to emerge.

Dont be frightened of the flu shot:

DDPHE anticipates more flu activity this winter than the previous two years. DDPHE recommends everyone get a flu shot. Getting a flu vaccine is an essential part of protecting your health and your familys health every year.

Flu shots are readily available. Medicare, Medicaid and most private health insurers cover the full cost of a flu vaccine. Some pharmacies, like CVS and Walgreens offer free flu shots.

DDPHE continues to urge everyone to be mindful and take precautions when going about their fall routines. If you feel sick, stay home and get tested. More information and resources are available at denvergov.org/covid19.

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Say Boo to the Flu and COVID-19 this Fall - denvergov.org