Colorado Sees Familiar Flu Shot Numbers, Lags in COVID-19 Immunizations

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KOAA) – coloradans are getting their flu shots. The state considers October through March flu season. State Epidemiologist Dr.Rachel herlihy reports that influenza immunization numbers are tracking similarly to previous years.

“We’re probably in the same ballpark of what we typically see for influenza vaccination numbers this fall,” Herlihy stated.

Colorado currently leads 2023 flu immunizations by approximately 6,600 doses.Though, COVID-19 immunization rates tell a different story.

“We’re a little bit behind this year compared to last year,” herlihy explained. “Looking back at 2023, we’re ahead of where we were at this point.”

Recent data from the Colorado Department of Public Health adn Environment reveals that about 15% of eligible Coloradans have received a flu shot this season.The data updates every Wednesday. As of October 22nd, only 7% of coloradans have received their COVID-19 shot.

“We certainly know there were some delays with vaccine recommendations, especially for children,” Herlihy said. “That may have delayed vaccine arrival in the state and ordering by healthcare providers.”

These delays may explain the low COVID-19 vaccine rates among children aged six months to nine years, currently at 2.3%. Though, peopel in their 20s have the lowest flu vaccine rate, at only 7%. Coloradans age 65 and older demonstrate the highest vaccination rates for both the flu and COVID-19.

“Influenza vaccines have been available longer, and this year, the influenza vaccine recommendations remained consistent,” herlihy noted. “The COVID vaccine recommendations initially caused confusion regarding who should receive the vaccine. I hope that’s been cleared up now.”

Herlihy confirms that anyone six months and older who wants the COVID-19 vaccine can get it. She anticipates that clarifying vaccine recommendations will help Colorado close the gap between COVID-19 and flu immunization rates.