Colorado's Flu Season Is Starting Earlier — Why November Is the Time to Vaccinate Your Kids

Colorado's 2026-27 flu season is already showing up earlier than last year — and last year was a bad one. UCHealth reports six times more positive flu tests compared to the same period in 2025. Colorado pediatricians and health officials are urging parents to get kids vaccinated now, before Thanksgiving travel and gatherings make community spread easier.

Who Should Get Vaccinated

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends an annual flu shot for all children ages 6 months and older. That recommendation applies every season, and this season is no exception.

Children who've never received a flu vaccine before need two doses spaced four weeks apart. Kids who've had the flu vaccine in prior years need one dose. If your child is due for two doses, the math on timing makes early November especially important — getting the first shot now means the second can land before December holiday gatherings.

Where to Get Vaccinated in Colorado Springs

Most pharmacies and pediatric clinics in COS carry the flu vaccine now. You don't need a special appointment at most pharmacies — walk-ins are available for children at many locations, though calling ahead to confirm availability for your child's age group saves time.

Pediatric clinics often have vaccines available during well-child visits or as a standalone appointment. If your child has a checkup already scheduled this month, confirm the flu shot will be on the visit list.

Timing: Why Before Thanksgiving Matters

It takes roughly two weeks after vaccination for the immune system to build full protection. Vaccinating in early November means coverage is in place before Thanksgiving — the holiday most associated with multi-household gatherings, travel, and indoor time with grandparents and extended family.

Flu season in Colorado typically peaks between December and February. Getting vaccinated in November puts kids ahead of that curve rather than catching up after peak season begins.

What's Next

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment and UCHealth are tracking flu activity weekly. If activity continues climbing at this early-season pace, public health officials may issue additional guidance before the holidays. For now, the consistent recommendation from pediatricians across Colorado is simple: get kids vaccinated in November, before the season peaks. Most COS clinics have availability. Most pharmacies have walk-in capacity. The hard part is finding a 15-minute window to go.