Twenty Colorado residents have been hospitalized for flu since Aug. 1, about twice the number usually seen this time of year in the state, according to San Juan Basin Public Health.
SJBPH and Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment urge state residents 6 months old and older to get flu vaccinations before the end of October, if possible.
Flu is among the most common respiratory illnesses in the United States and infects millions each flu season. During last year’s flu season 3,340 Coloradans were hospitalized and two children died from the flu. Vaccination can reduce flu illnesses, doctor visits, missed work and school days and prevent flu-related hospitalizations. Elderly populations, young children, pregnant women and those with specific health conditions are typically more vulnerable to serious flu complications.
