Respiratory Illnesses: COVID-19, Influenza, RSV

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We have a limited supply the new 2023-2024 COVID vaccine. We can currently offer it to the following community members only:

  • Children and Adults who are under or uninsured
  • Children covered by Medicaid or CHP+
  • Adults covered by Medicaid
Those with medical insurance other than those listed above should seek vaccination at their in-network primary care provider or pharmacy.  Most insurance companies will cover the cost of vaccination at no cost to the patient but people are encouraged to check their specific plan for more details. For more information on COVID-19 vaccine eligibility and clinic locations please see the Vaccines Page or contact your healthcare provider.

 

Respiratory Illnesses
Be prepared as we head into another respiratory virus season. Respiratory viruses include COVID-19, influenza, RSV, and other common cold viruses. The symptoms of these viruses are similar and may be difficult to determine what is causing illness, but all of them can be transmitted to others.

How to Prevent Respiratory Illness

Take steps to prevent respiratory illness and the spread of disease by:

  • Stay up to date with immunizations, including yearly influenza and COVID vaccines
  • Wash hands frequently
  • Cover your coughs and sneezes
  • Stay home when you are sick
  • Wear a mask if you have symptoms or are concerned about spreading illness to others, especially those at higher risk of severe illness

Track Virus Trends

Visit the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment’s Respiratory Virus Dashboard to monitor trends.


COVID-19

COVID-19 symptoms are similar to other respiratory diseases with some people developing severe illness. Persons with symptoms, regardless of testing, are encouraged to:

  • Stay home when you are sick
  • Wear a mask around others
  • Avoid close contact with persons who are at higher risk for severe illness
  • The majority of people infected with COVID will experience mild to moderate illness and can be cared for at home.
  • Treatment for COVID-19 is available for certain high-risk persons to help prevent severe illness. Contact your healthcare provider for more information

Vaccination

  • COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for everyone 6 months and older
  • Vaccination is the best protection against severe illness and helps prevent Long COVID which can last for several months following infection
  • The COVID-19 and influenza vaccines can be administered at the same time regardless of age
  • Please see the Vaccines Page or contact your healthcare provider or pharmacy for more information

Where to get tested?

  • On May 11, 2023, the federal public health emergency for COVID-19 ended, as a result, the free COVID-19 home test kit distribution program in Eagle County has also ended
  • 4 Free Home Test Kits per household can be ordered at https://www.covid.gov/tests starting September 25, 2023
  • Many people can get tested through their healthcare provider if they feel sick and need medical attention
  • Home test kits can be purchased at local pharmacies and stores
  • Check with your insurance plan to determine if they cover the cost of testing or purchasing test kits

What to Do If You Test Positive or Have Been Exposed?


Influenza (flu)

Influenza, or flu, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by a virus. Influenza symptoms typically have a sudden onset and can last 5-7 days.

  • Everyone 6 months of age and older is recommended to get a yearly flu shot. Vaccination is the best protection from severe illness. Please see the Vaccines Page or contact your healthcare provider or pharmacy for more information.
  • Anyone can get sick with influenza and serious illness can occur to anyone at any age. People at higher risk for severe illness include older adults, persons with certain chronic health conditions, pregnant people, and young children.
  • Most people with flu have mild illness and do not need medical care. However, if you are at increased risk for severe illness or are very sick or worried about your illness, contact your healthcare provider who may recommend treatment.

Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection (RSV)

RSV is a common respiratory virus that typically causes cold-like symptoms. However, very young children, older adults, and persons with certain chronic health conditions are at higher risk for severe illness. 


  • Talk to your healthcare provider about new tools this year to help protect against severe illness:
    • Older Adults: Vaccines are currently available for adults 60 years and older with certain chronic health conditions
    • Infants and Young Children: monoclonal antibody treatments are available for infants and young children.
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