New COVID variants threaten Colorado's most vulnerable
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New COVID subvariants are spurring an uptick of cases and hospitalizations across Colorado, with the elderly again among the most vulnerable to the virus.
Driving the news: People ages 65 and older account for nearly 9 out of 10 COVID deaths to date — roughly two to three times the rate at which they die from the flu, according to a new Washington Post analysis of CDC data.
- Meanwhile, less than half of Coloradans 65 and up — 39.7% — have received all COVID vaccines recommended by the CDC, the latest state figures show.
What's happening: At least 124 COVID outbreaks have occurred in Colorado residential health care centers so far this month, accounting for 92% of all outbreaks recorded by state health officials in November.
- The rise in cases is likely due to new Omicron subvariants — which can evade the latest protections — along with the arrival of colder weather and more indoor gatherings, a spokesperson for the state's health department tells Axios Denver.
By the numbers: Roughly 72% of nursing home residents in Colorado are up-to-date on COVID shots, meaning they have received their Omicron booster vaccine, a spokesperson for the state health department tells Axios Denver.
- Two-thirds of Colorado nursing home staff are also up-to-date on their jabs, per CDC data.
Of note: As of June, staff at licensed health care facilities in the state are no longer required to be vaccinated.
What's next: The Biden administration is launching a six-week campaign to boost vaccination rates among seniors, including nursing home residents — and the staff members who care for them.
- Federal reports will be provided to Colorado and other states to point out the poorest performing nursing homes and how to improve them.