University of Colorado College of Nursing to offer drive-up flu shots

Coloradans are encouraged to get the flu vaccine to combat impending flu season, thwart strain on healthcare resources coupled with COVID19 ~

AURORA, Colo.  – The University of Colorado College of Nursing and its nurse practitioner-led clinic at Belleview Point will be offering drive-up flu clinics Sept. 23 and Oct. 7. 

“In the midst of COVID-19, people are very concerned about visiting a doctor’s office or clinic, so we’ve set up convenient flu vaccinations available at your car. Just call and schedule an appointment, and drive up at your prescribed time and we will come to you,” said Belleview Point Clinical Director Emily Cheshire, DNP, MSN. “It’s a great, safe and convenient way to protect yourself during flu season.”

Peak flu season is usually December through February. The optimal time to receive a flu shot is September and October. “It takes about two weeks to develop antibodies to flu after receiving the shot. However, if you have not received a flu shot by the end of October, it is still recommended and you will benefit from a flu shot later,” said Cheshire.

When it comes to flu season, the U.S. takes its cues from countries like Australia. “It looks like there are three new strains identified so far this year,” said Cheshire. Flu strains fall into A and B categories. This year brings new A strains (H1N1, H3N2) and a B strain from the Victoria lineage. “We look at what’s being reported out of Australia, and those are the strains we use to develop our flu vaccines,” said Cheshire. Coloradans are encouraged to get their flu vaccine to combat the impending flu season. “If we see an uptick in flu cases, together with a potential surge in coronavirus, this will be very challenging to provide care to everyone that may need it in hospitals,” said Cheshire.  

“Australia’s flu season has been less severe because of mandatory restrictions placed to reduce coronavirus infections. Social distancing, mask wearing, hand washing, increase in flu vaccines, international border closures and telehealth visits are having a positive impact.  Despite no country-wide mandates, our hope is that we experience less influenza and influenza-associated deaths as has been the experience in the Southern hemisphere,” said Cheshire.

In order to facilitate safety and convenience, CU’s Belleview Point Clinic (5001 S Parker Rd #215, Aurora, CO 80015) is offering a drive-up service by appointment only. Call 303-315-6200 to schedule your appointment now.

About the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus
The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus is a world-class medical destination at the forefront of transformative science, medicine, education, and patient care. The campus encompasses the University of Colorado health professional schools, more than 60 centers and institutes, and two nationally ranked hospitals that treat more than 2 million adult and pediatric patients each year. Innovative, interconnected and highly collaborative, together we deliver life-changing treatments, patient care, professional training, and conduct world-renowned research powered by more than $550 million in research awards. For more information, visit www.cuanschutz.edu.