Flu Season in Southern Colorado: Understanding the Current Risk

A somber milestone has marked the start of this year's flu season: an elementary school-aged child in Colorado has become the first influenza-related death in the United States for the current year.

According to Hope Shuler, a spokesperson for the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE), statewide flu hospitalizations are four times higher than last year at this time, although still lower than levels seen in 2022.

The CDPHE reports a sharp increase in hospitalizations in recent weeks. For the week ending December 6th, 241 people were hospitalized due to the flu, representing a rate of 4.10 per 100,000 residents. Since October 1st, the state has seen a total of 728 flu-related hospitalizations.

El Paso County is also experiencing an increase in flu cases. The El Paso County Public Health Department reported 21 influenza cases in the first week of December, a continuation of a rise that began around November 15th, when only three cases were reported.

Experts urge vaccination as the best defense. Dr. David Hill of the American Lung Association advises, "Talk to your provider. Try to get vaccinated. It's the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones."

This year, health officials are observing the early spread of the subclade k strain. This development adds extra importance to vaccination efforts, especially for vulnerable populations like the elderly, young children, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions.

Dr. Hill notes that those with the flu or COVID-19 tend to face higher risks of hospitalization and death, making vaccination particularly crucial for these groups.

While the subclade k strain was not specifically targeted in this year's flu vaccine, the CDPHE still recommends vaccination. A spokesperson stated that the vaccine remains a valuable tool in preventing severe illness and hospitalization.