Governor Jared Polis, along with Chief Medical Officer Dr. Ned Calonge and State Epidemiologist Dr. Rachel Herlihy, received their COVID-19 and flu vaccines at a local pharmacy as the respiratory virus season approaches.
“It’s that time of the year when our kids are back to school, the air gets a little colder, and people can start to feel a little under the weather. To avoid getting sick and spreading disease, I encourage my fellow Coloradans to join me in getting the safe and effective flu and COVID-19 vaccines. We’ve taken steps to make it quick and easy here in Colorado. Getting vaccinated is a simple step you can take to help yourself and your family members stay healthy,” said Governor Polis.
Health officials urge residents to get vaccinated for both flu and COVID-19 as soon as possible. Vaccines are available at local public health clinics, primary care offices, and many pharmacies throughout Colorado. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) provides information on finding low or no-cost vaccine providers through its Find a Vaccine Provider webpage.
“As we enter the respiratory virus season, it’s important to remember that flu, COVID-19, and RSV can be serious and even life threatening, especially for people at higher risk,” said Dr. Rachel Herlihy, state epidemiologist. “Immunization reduces the risk of getting seriously ill. It also reduces the risk of spreading the virus to others, including those who are most vulnerable.”
“Getting both your flu and updated COVID-19 vaccines is the best defense against severe illness, hospitalization, and even death. We have taken steps to ensure Coloradans can walk into a local pharmacy and get these vital protections without a prescription, removing an unnecessary barrier,” said CDPHE chief medical officer Dr. Ned Calonge.
On September 3, 2025, Governor Polis and CDPHE issued a Public Health Order allowing pharmacists across Colorado to provide COVID-19 vaccines without individual prescriptions; this standing order took effect on September 5.
