Colorado Governor Received Flu and COVID-19 Vaccinations
As seasonal cases rise, officials are urging residents to consider timely immunizations.
Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in COVID-19
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Colorado Governor Jared Polis received his flu and COVID-19 vaccinations at the state Capitol to demonstrate the accessibility of the process. As the state observes rising respiratory virus activity, health officials are encouraging residents to review their own vaccination status.
Why it matters
Early indicators of rising flu cases suggest Colorado may face an earlier season than in previous years, making current immunization rates a critical factor in managing hospital capacity. Vaccination remains a key strategy for reducing individual risk and preventing the spread of illness to vulnerable populations.
Current surveillance shows 36 people hospitalized with flu and 34 with COVID-19, with September flu cases recorded at four times the volume of the previous year. While approximately 7% of Coloradans have received a flu shot, this rate represents a decrease of more than 1% compared to last year.
The players
Jared Polis
The Governor of Colorado who has publicly received flu and COVID-19 vaccinations.
The details
Vaccinations for influenza and COVID-19 are widely available to the public at local pharmacies, primary care clinics, and doctors' offices. These immunizations work by priming the immune system to recognize and respond to viral pathogens, thereby reducing the likelihood of severe illness and hospital admission. Maintaining updated vaccination status is particularly important for individuals who have frequent contact with higher-risk family members, such as elderly parents.
Timeline
September 2026: Flu cases were four times higher than in September of the previous year.
September 30, 2026: 36 people were hospitalized with flu and 34 with COVID-19 in Colorado.
October 1, 2026: Official report on current immunization and hospitalization trends.
December 31, 2025: Nearly 800 flu patients had been hospitalized in Colorado.
Health Landscape
Colorado is currently tracking hospitalizations against its established seasonal benchmarks, noting a marked increase in activity compared to this time last year. This trend indicates a potential departure from the typical flu season start, which historically falls in November or December.
Given the rising number of respiratory infections, residents should assess their current vaccination status and consider visiting a pharmacy or clinic if they have not yet been immunized this season. Discuss your specific risks and the appropriateness of these vaccinations for your health profile with your primary care physician.
The takeaway
Early data confirms a significant increase in respiratory virus activity across Colorado compared to last year. If you have questions about which immunizations are right for you, schedule a conversation with your healthcare provider to review current local health recommendations.
Further reading
For additional context on staying protected, visit our guide on COVID-19.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Colorado Public Radio.
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Do you plan to get a flu or COVID-19 vaccination this season?
