Where to Get Flu Shots for Kids in Colorado Springs This Fall

Colorado had five pediatric deaths from influenza during the 2025-26 flu season — and the state's child vaccination rate last year was approximately 34.4%, well below the national average of around 52%. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all children 6 months and older get vaccinated against flu, ideally by the end of October, to allow immunity to develop before flu season peaks.

For Colorado Springs families, the question isn't whether to vaccinate — it's where to go. Here are the local options.

What to Know Before You Go

Flu vaccines are available as a standard injection or as FluMist, a nasal spray approved for healthy children between 2 and 49 years old. If your child is hesitant about needles, asking about FluMist at your preferred clinic is worth the call.

Children under 9 years old who are receiving a flu vaccine for the first time — or who have only received one flu shot previously — need two doses, given at least four weeks apart. If this applies to your child, schedule the first dose now to allow time for the second dose before flu season peaks.

Scheduling flu shots for all family members in one trip reduces the number of clinic visits. Most providers who see children for flu vaccines will also administer the shot for accompanying adults.

Quick Reference

What's Next

The AAP recommends vaccination by the end of October for the best protection during peak flu months, which typically run November through March in Colorado. If October doesn't work, a November or December vaccination still provides meaningful protection — but sooner is better. Colorado CDPHE tracks flu activity statewide at cdphe.colorado.gov; that's the best place to watch for real-time updates on when flu is circulating in El Paso County. For families with children who have underlying health conditions, talk to your pediatrician about timing and any additional precautions for the 2026-27 season.