Larimer County, CO – Respiratory virus season is underway, and the Larimer County Department of Health and Environment (LCDHE) is encouraging residents to take steps now to protect themselves and their families from influenza (flu), COVID-19, and other respiratory illnesses.
Influenza activity is increasing earlier this year than in recent seasons, and flu-related hospitalizations are also higher than they have been at this point in previous years. With the holiday season approaching and people spending more time indoors, LCDHE encourages residents to stay informed about local illness trends and take precautions to help reduce the spread of respiratory viruses.
“Seeing flu activity and hospitalizations increase this early in the season is a powerful reminder that now is the time to take steps to protect yourself and the people around you,” said Paul Mayer, Medical Officer for the Larimer County Department of Health and Environment. “Getting your flu and COVID-19 vaccines when recommended is one of the best ways to reduce your risk of serious illness. Staying home when you’re sick and taking a few additional precautions can also make a meaningful difference, especially for people who are more likely to become seriously ill.”
LCDHE encourages residents to consider several ways to protect themselves and others this respiratory virus season:
- Stay up to date on recommended vaccines. Flu and COVID-19 vaccines can reduce the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and complications. Talk with your healthcare provider or pharmacist about which vaccines are recommended for you.
- Stay home when you’re sick. Give yourself time to recover and help avoid spreading illness to coworkers, classmates, friends, and family.
- Improve indoor air. When possible, increase ventilation by opening windows, using air filtration, or gathering outdoors.
- Consider wearing a well-fitting mask in crowded indoor spaces or when respiratory illnesses are circulating at high levels, particularly if you or someone you spend time with is at higher risk for severe illness.
- Wash your hands regularly and cover coughs and sneezes.
- Consider testing when you're sick. Knowing whether you have COVID-19 or another respiratory illness can help you make decisions about treatment and protecting others.
- Seek treatment early if you are at higher risk. Treatments for flu and COVID-19 work best when started soon after symptoms begin. Contact your healthcare provider promptly if you become sick and are at higher risk for severe illness.
Some people are more likely to experience serious complications from respiratory illnesses, including older adults, young children, pregnant people, and people with certain underlying health conditions. Taking precautions can help protect not only your own health, but also family members, friends, coworkers, and neighbors who may be more vulnerable.
Residents can follow local trends in influenza, RSV, and COVID-19 through LCDHE’s Respiratory Viruses Dashboard at larimer.gov/illness-trends. The dashboard provides timely local data that can help residents understand when respiratory viruses are increasing and make informed decisions about precautions.
For more information about respiratory illnesses, vaccination, and ways to stay healthy this season, visit larimer.gov/stayhealthy.
