![](https://swiftmedia.s3.amazonaws.com/mountain.swiftcom.com/images/sites/5/2023/12/27161352/4dba765d-00de-5bcc-b086-3a6339ce770e-scaled-1-1024x683.jpeg)
Aspen Instances Archive
The Pitkin County Public Well being Division expects an uptick in influenza, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) circumstances within the coming weeks resulting from vacation journey.
Instances of the three respiratory viruses are already on the rise, after circumstances plateaued throughout the low season, mentioned Carly Senest, director of the county’s epidemiology program. Aspen Valley Hospital is seeing a rise in sufferers affected by one or a mix of the three viruses.
“Our native hospital is feeling the burden and feeling this surge of exercise, not in a disaster, however they undoubtedly know what is going on on,” she mentioned. “The final two months have been our low season, so we have seen very low numbers of exercise, very low numbers of circumstances. However as we obtain an inflow of tourists over the New Yr, over the Christmas holidays, we’ve got come to count on and count on a rise in respiratory sicknesses to coincide with the respiratory sickness season.” respiratory system within the nation.
About 32% of individuals in Pitkin County have acquired an up to date COVID booster shot this season, which is barely increased than the state common, she mentioned. She mentioned it is a lot decrease than earlier years, particularly since vaccine distribution has modified since doses have been first administered. Coronavirus vaccines are actually beneficial for use seasonally with the flu vaccine and are lined by insurance coverage quite than being broadly administered by vaccine clinics.
Vaccines can be found at many pharmacies within the Valley. Major care docs may also administer vaccines.
Senset urged individuals who really feel sick to remain dwelling to guard themselves and others.
“(At-home COVID assessments) are actually good at figuring out in case you’re sick with COVID, however you can be sick with any of the opposite two massive assessments we’ve got,” she mentioned. “When you have a fever, or are exhibiting signs, no matter your check standing, staying dwelling for about 24 hours after your signs have gone can go a great distance — not solely serving to you get higher quicker, but additionally serving to shield these round you.” “.
It additionally inspired sporting masks in crowded indoor public locations resembling airports or grocery shops.
“We all know it is simple to have plenty of enjoyable in Aspen,” she mentioned. “We all know everyone seems to be right here to have a very good time and everybody desires to get out and have fun and ski and ring within the New Yr, however we have already seen a rise in circumstances of all respiratory sicknesses.”
“I actually encourage folks to make that additional effort and attempt to embed caring for ourselves, caring for our group, getting vaccinated after we can, and staying dwelling after we’re sick,” she added.