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Public health director: measles cases tick up; county wins opioid-abatement grant funds
Summary
Ouray County Public Health reported four more measles cases since October, widespread vaccine availability and that WIC funding is secured through Nov. 30; the board approved an IGA with Gunnison County for Colorado Opioid Abatement Council funds totaling $26,000 for partnering public-health activities.
Kristen Kelly, Ouray County public health director, told the board on Nov. 5 that measles remains present in the region (four additional cases since October) while avian flu has shown no activity in the county since May 2024. West Nile virus totals for 2025 were reported at 281 cases statewide.
Kelly emphasized vaccine availability as respiratory season begins, saying the state's updated 2025'026 COVID vaccine and seasonal flu shots are available to everyone aged 6 months and older and that most insurers, including Medicaid and Medicare, cover them. "All Coloradoans who want the updated COVID 19 vaccine can get 1," Kelly said, adding the county has the newest vaccines formulated for current variants.
Kelly also updated the board on WIC services: state supplemental funding approved Oct. 30 secures services and food benefits through Nov. 30, and local WIC staffing will continue through that date pending additional funding. She noted county public-health staff administered 354 vaccines since September.
On grant funding, Kelly asked the board to approve an intergovernmental agreement with Gunnison County as part of the West Central Public Health Partnership. The Colorado Opioid Abatement Council (COAC) allocation will provide $26,000 across partner agencies, with $10,000 for events, $6,000 for marketing and $10,000 for basic-needs assistance for families affected by substance use. Kelly said the county plans to partner with Telluride Foundation to distribute basic-needs funds quickly once an MOU is in place.
The board approved the IGA with Gunnison County by motion (moved by Commissioner (S3); seconded by Commissioner (S5)); the vote carried unanimously.
Community resources and outreach noted in the update included local vaccine clinics, the Ouray County Food Pantry and additional donation points (Alpine Bank lobby, sheriff's office). The public-information officer said the county would publish the resource list on the county website and social channels.
What happens next
Staff will sign and return the Gunnison County IGA and pursue the Telluride Foundation arrangement for timely distribution of basic-needs funds; public-health will continue vaccine clinics and community outreach.
