Mesa County Public Health (MCPH) is reminding our community that this year’s flu season is officially underway, and it’s likely that flu viruses and the virus that causes COVID-19 will both spread this fall and winter. The best way to prevent seasonal flu is to get a flu vaccine each year. By getting your flu shot, you will be keeping yourself and your loved ones safe.
Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, reducing the spread of respiratory illnesses is more important than ever. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has worked to ensure there is enough flu vaccine this season, and MCPH ordered more doses of vaccine than usual to ensure we have an adequate supply to protect our community.
We make it easy with drive thru clinics
Mesa County Public Health is hosting drive thru community flu clinics this year. The outdoor clinics are for people of all ages, with special considerations for children. In an effort to keep the events as contact free as possible, we ask that you register ahead of time using this link. Flu vaccine is typically covered by insurance, and if you do not have insurance, you qualify for our vaccine program. Don’t let cost be a barrier.
WHEN:
- Saturday, October 17th from 9 a.m.- 3 p.m. (open to all ages)
- Saturday, October 24th from 9 a.m.- 3 p.m. (open to all ages)
WHERE:
- Community Services Building, 510 29 ½ Road
IF YOU CAN, AHEAD OF TIME:
WHAT TO BRING:
- ID
- Insurance card – if you have it, if not, don’t worry!
Why a flu shot is important
You can get seriously ill from the flu, especially if you do not get a flu vaccine.The CDC estimates that during the 2019-2020 season 38 million people were ill with flu. In Mesa County last year, 77 people were hospitalized due to complications from the flu. Everyone 6 months of age and older should get a flu vaccine, especially people at high risk including young children, pregnant women, people 65 years and older, and people with certain chronic health conditions.
COVID-19 and Flu
Because flu (influenza) and COVID-19 are both contagious respiratory viruses, symptoms are similar and it can be hard to tell them apart.
Flu (Influenza Symptoms) Also COVID-19 Symptom?
| Fever/chills | Yes |
| Cough | Yes |
| Sore throat | Yes |
| Fatigue | Yes |
| Muscle or body aches | Yes |
| Headache | Yes |
| Stuffy, runny nose | Yes |
| Vomiting and diarrhea (more common in children) | Yes |
The main difference between COVID-19 and flu is that with COVID-19 you can experience a loss of taste or smell. But not everyone with COVID-19 experiences this symptom, and not all symptoms are present in all individuals. Both viruses are spread in similar ways, through droplets or touching an infected surface. You can also be contagious before showing symptoms.
Prefer an appointment?
The MCPH Clinic offers flu vaccination during regular business hours – Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday from 8 a.m. to noon. If you would like your flu vaccine outside our drive thru flu clinic hours, an appointment is needed. We urge all residents who want to get a flu vaccine to come in and see us or give us a call at 970-248-6900 with any questions.