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Pitkin County health staff warn of a relatively severe influenza A season, flag measles risk and describe state immunization guidance
Summary
Public‑health epidemiology staff reported an earlier, more severe influenza A season than recent years, encouraged vaccination, and explained Colorado's recent action to align childhood immunization guidance with the American Academy of Pediatrics while county school vaccine rules remain unchanged.
Pitkin County epidemiology staff told the Board of Health on Jan. 15 that local wastewater surveillance and hospital indicators point to a relatively severe influenza A season, and urged vaccination for those who have not yet been vaccinated.
Epidemiology staff described the circulating influenza A subclade as a less‑optimal match for the current vaccine, but said the vaccine remains effective at reducing hospitalizations and severe illness. "If anyone has yet to get that seasonal influenza vaccine, that is still recommended," the epidemiology presenter said.
Staff also warned that national measles activity had increased in 2025–26 and that the United States was close to losing its official elimination status due to ongoing outbreaks reported in several states. County staff said Colorado held an emergency hearing Dec. 17 and functionally maintained childhood vaccine requirements aligned with the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP); the county's school and childcare immunization policies remain in place.
Board members discussed testing for flu and COVID and the availability of antiviral medications for high‑risk patients; clinicians on the board urged early testing and seeking medical care for eligible patients within 48 hours if antiviral therapy is under consideration.
