The Larimer County Department of Health and Environment is urging the community to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 as the fall months approach.
LARIMER COUNTY, Colo. — Health officials in Larimer County urge residents to get vaccinated and wear their masks as the fall and winter months approach to help keep hospitalizations down.
The Larimer County Department of Health and Environment said in a press release that they are bracing for a potential surge in COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and influenza (flu). The number of people getting sick could bring a large number of patients into hospitals.
Larimer County said 86 patients have been hospitalized since Sept. 1. Since then, 26 patients have died from the virus. The county said that majority of the people who passed away were unvaccinated.
>Video above: Q&A about COVID-19 and the vaccine
As of Oct. 9, Larimer County ICU utilization is at 105% of the level of customary care. Forty percent of those patients are in there with COVID-19, the press release said.
With the potential increase of COVID-19, RSV, and the flu, Larmier County is asking the community to help stop the spread by doing the following:
- Get the COVID-19 vaccine and booster shot
- Get the flu shot
- Wear a mask indoor
- Postpone large indoor gatherings
- Stay home if you’re sick
- If exposed to COVID-19, wear a mask and get tested
- Do not attend school or work if you’ve tested positive for COVID-19
Tom Gonzales, the Larimer County public health director, is pleading that the community take the plead seriously.
“We are facing the potential for hospitals to become even more overwhelmed during the fall and winter. Now is the time to get your preventative shots to help minimize the impacts of these viruses,” Gonzales said.
This is the second time this year Larimer County officials have urged the community to help stop the spread of COVID-19. Back in August, ICU beds in the main hospital were at full capacity.
Anyone in Larimer County looking to get vaccinated can visit the Larimer County website to see where they can get vaccinated and make an appointment.
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