As the holiday season approaches, share the joy of the season and not the flu.

San Juan Basin Health (SJBH) reminds residents that it is not too late to get your vaccine as flu activity usually peaks between December and February. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends a yearly flu vaccine for everyone 6 months of age and older as the first and most important step in protecting against influenza disease.

Flu is among the most common respiratory illnesses in the United States, infecting millions of people every flu season.  The severity of flu illness can vary from mild to severe. CDC estimates that over a period of 30 years, between 1976 and 2006, estimates of yearly flu-associated deaths in the United States range from a low of about 3,000 to a high of about 49,000 people during the most severe season.  Each season it's estimated that more than 200,000 people are hospitalized because of flu-related complications.

SJBH encourages residents to receive their immunizations in their medical home with their primary care provider to ensure that their care is well-coordinated. Flu shots are a preventive care benefit for both children and adults covered under the Affordable Care Act and for most people the immunization will be free. For more information, visit https://www.healthcare.gov/what-are-my-preventive-care-benefits/.

SJBH has a limited supply of specialized flu vaccine including high dose flu shots for seniors and preservative free vaccine for pregnant women. Additionally, SJBH can provide flu shots for eligible children and adults who qualify for federally supported vaccines if they are unable to receive them from their primary care provider.

Durango - appointments available Tuesday through Thursday. Call (970)335-2013 call Monday - Thursday 8:30-5:00, Fri 8:30-1:00 to schedule an appointment.

Pagosa Springs - appointments available first Thursday of every month. Call (970)264-2409 Monday - Friday 8:30-4:30 to schedule an appointment.

San Juan Basin Health is a local public health agency, governed by a seven-member local Board of Health, serving all residents of La Plata and Archuleta counties. For over 60 years, San Juan Basin Health has improved the health and environment of the Southwest Colorado community.