Pitkin county has recently moved to the High or red level on the CDC Community Level meter. This is in part to hospitalizations due to Covid-19 and Aspen Valley Hospital recently moved into a higher risk category and reinstated a mask mandate for staff and patients due not only in part of Covid-19 but also other respiratory illnesses.
We know winter brings higher levels of illness as we gather indoors regularly. This winter may be especially difficult as we are currently seeing high levels of Flu, RSV, and Covid-19, even though the cold-weather has just begun. As we travel and gather indoors for holiday events, we must remember the best practices to keep ourselves and our loved ones healthy this season.
- Studies show that co-infection increases the risk of severe and prolonged illness.
- Co-infection can cause a moderately healthy person to require medical intervention and increases the likelihood of adverse outcomes, such as mechanical ventilation and death.
- Hospital capacity is dangerously low or currently overburdened, especially for pediatric treatment. As hospital staff members fall ill, capacity decreases.
Take action to protect yourself and your loved ones through the holidays:
- Vaccines are effective at reducing severe illness -The Mobile Vax bus will be in Aspen December 6th-9th,(make an appointment) and doctor’s offices have Covid-19 and Flu vaccine supply
- Stay home when sick
- Wear a mask in public to reduce the spread of germs
- Handwashing is key
- Do not share cups or utensils
- Be mindful, prepare in advance for holiday gatherings, opt for outdoor activities or open windows for better ventilation.
