It’s flu season again, and this winter has been particularly bad, with Colorado recently seeing an increase in cases. Dr. Kelley Prince, MD, FAAFP is the chief medical officer at Uncompahgre Medical Center (UMC) and has served the community there for the last five years. According to her, “we’re actually seeing increased cases in Colorado, and seeing them in San Miguel County … What we’re noticing here in our neck of the woods is a couple of cases per week.”
Prince said the increase in flu cases has been seen across all age groups and that babies and the elderly are at an elevated risk for complications. Additionally, pregnant women face a higher risk, as their immune system can be lower.
She said it’s best to take special caution in preventing these groups from getting sick. She offered a range of tips to help high-risk groups, and also the whole community, stay healthy this flu season.
These tips include handwashing and hygiene in general, especially after coming into contact with shared surfaces. In addition, she said avoiding contact with those experiencing flu symptoms is a key part of staying healthy. As such, those who are feeling sick can help the rest of the community, especially those in high-risk groups, remain healthy by staying home. This also includes keeping sick kids home from school.
Besides all of these precautions, Prince said the flu vaccine can also help people stay protected. Prince said the Center for Disease Control recommends the flu vaccine for everyone six months and older and for pregnant women.
“I think it's also especially important if you are older,” she said. “Just be aware that (flu) puts you at higher risk.”
She said the elderly should talk to their health care provider to decide on a course of action for staying healthy, a plan that they are most comfortable with.
But, the flu isn’t the only illness in the area right now.
“There has been some COVID and RSV, but those don't seem to be quite as prevalent,” Prince said. “We’ve seen a little bit more of RSV in younger patients of late. Most flu has been in adults.”
Prince said although most people “will do OK at home” if they contract flu, she does know of a few local residents who have been hospitalized due to the illness, but such cases have not been seen at UMC specifically. She said those experiencing severe flu symptoms, such as shortness of breath, not being able to eat or drink or producing low urine output, should seek medical treatment.
Last week, San Miguel County Public Health issued a press release also announcing that flu in the U.S. is at its highest level in 30 years. County representatives added that Colorado was seeing some of the highest numbers of flu and that it’s not too late receive the vaccine, as flu season will be ongoing through March or April.
San Miguel County Public Health’s clinic will continue to offer vaccinations for COVID, flu and more for everyone, regardless of insurance status. To schedule a vaccination or to learn more information about services offered, the public may visit https://bit.ly/SMCPH-VAX.
This story is funded by the Telluride Foundation through a grant dedicated to health care reporting for 2026.
