 June 2021 // Volume 3, Issue 6
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COVID-19 vaccination rates are rising in Jefferson County, which is driving declining rates of infection overall. However, we are still seeing COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations, especially among those who remain unvaccinated. In Jefferson County, young people have lower vaccination rates compared to other age groups. As of June 22, although more than 70% of all Jeffco residents 12 and older have received at least one dose of vaccine, only 62.3% of those ages 16-29 have received at least one dose.
In an effort to help keep as many people as possible healthy and safe, this month Jefferson County Public Health (JCPH) launched a new campaign to increase vaccine coverage among teens and young adults age 16-29. The campaign, called “You Can Be The Reason,” was created based on extensive research and participation from those 16-29. The campaign amplifies the agency of young people to make an impact, and focuses on the benefits of vaccination as identified by those in the target age range such as protecting themselves and their loved ones from the virus, as well as returning to beloved activities like in-person learning, attending events and safely gathering with family and friends. Additionally, the campaign aims to address commonly reported barriers to getting vaccinated by offering reliable vaccine safety education as well as information on how to access a free vaccine in convenient locations across the county.
To learn more about “You Can Be The Reason”, please visit our website. For more information about COVID-19 vaccines, including how to find a free, convenient vaccine location near you, visit www.jeffco.us/covid-vaccine.
Together,
Dr. Dawn Comstock
Executive Director
Jefferson County Public Health
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Let’s Clear the Air We ShareAs we begin to venture outdoors more with warmer weather, please remember that now, more than ever, it’s important to keep family, friends and neighbors healthy and safe by refraining from smoking and vaping where people are gathered, including in public spaces. Jefferson County Public Health (JCPH) has launched a new educational campaign in partnership with communities across the county, “Let’s Clear the Air We Share,” to inform residents and visitors about existing laws related to outdoor smoking and vaping, educate about the harms of secondhand smoke and vapor and inspire everyone to work together to keep the air we share clean and healthy for all. Even brief exposure to secondhand smoke can be harmful to both children and adults, and secondhand aerosol has been shown to expose those nearby to harmful chemicals. Additionally, growing evidence suggests that smoking can lead to greater risk of severe illness from COVID-19. Take the community pledge and find other helpful resources at www.jeffco.us/cleartheair.
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We Need Your Input!With a light finally at the end of the long tunnel that is the COVID-19 pandemic, Jefferson County is setting its sights on the future, as well as on pandemic recovery needs for communities. Jefferson County Government is seeking input from Jeffco residents to collect data and help steer these efforts through two distinct surveys: the Jefferson County Community Needs Survey (“Community Needs Survey”) and the Jefferson County Community Health and Well-being Survey (“Community Health/Well-being Survey”).
The Community Needs Survey will inform how the county will prioritize the use of federal funds from the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 to meet the needs of underserved community members and promote recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Community Health/Well-being Survey is available at the same time as the Community Needs Survey but serves a distinctly different purpose. In addition to assessing the community health impacts of COVID-19, this survey will address cessation and receptivity to best practice tobacco control policies, substance use and mental health, food insecurity, community connectedness, and priority community health needs. The results from the survey will help shape Jefferson County Public Health’s future programming and will be used to determine community awareness of, and support for, best-practice community health policies.
When it comes to the needs of our community, Jefferson County residents are the experts. These surveys will be running from June 1, 2021, through July 12, 2021, and residents of Jefferson County are encouraged to complete both surveys. The Community Needs Assessment Survey is available to anyone living or working in Jefferson County through an online platform at www.jeffcocovidsurvey.com, and is available in both English and Spanish on that site. Take the Community Health/Well-being Survey in English or take the Community Health/Well-being Survey in Spanish. It is available to anyone living in Jefferson County. |
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Prevent Diseases Carried by Insects and
Animals This SummerSummer is here, and that means sunshine, hiking, barbeques and enjoying the great outdoors. Insects and animals are also coming out to explore this time of year, so JCPH encourages community members to remember to take precautions to protect themselves and their loved ones from the serious diseases some can carry. In Colorado, there are several diseases that can be transmitted by insects and animals you need to know about.
Learn more here.
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Jeffco Slash Collections Reduce wildfire danger and protect your property through Jeffco SLASH: Sustainable Lands and Safer Homes. Jefferson County is once again hosting summer-long slash collections at which you can drop off tree debris and other organic material. The 2021 slash collection will be each weekend at various locations throughout Jefferson County from June 5 through October 31. This spring and summer, make a point to clean up and clear out your tree debris. Then, make sure to take that debris to one of the collection sites. Visit the SLASH web page to find the nearest location to you.
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Power the ComebackAs part of this public health initiative, the Colorado Lottery will conduct a random weekly drawing on behalf of the Colorado Department of Health & Environment to identify one vaccinated Colorado resident each week to win a million-dollar cash prize. All Colorado residents age 12 and older who have received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine, as determined by eligibility rules, are automatically entered into the drawings. Coloradans age 12 to 17 can now win $50,000 toward college tuition or other postsecondary education. Each week for five weeks, five eligible Coloradans will each be selected to win a $50,000 scholarship. Teens who have received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine may be eligible for the scholarship drawing. Learn more here. |
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DATA ROUNDUP: COVID-19 Case Summary
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As we work to lessen the spread of COVID-19 in Jefferson County, you can stay up to date on COVID-19 data. Click here for a summary at the state level. Click here for our newly updated data dashboard with information on COVID-19 in Jefferson County. |
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Talk with Teens about IdentityIdentity development is a central task of adolescent development. Who am I? How do I fit in? What is my role? What do I believe in? These are all key questions adolescents are asking themselves. Important dimensions of identity formation include race, ethnicity, gender, and sexual orientation. Talking to an adult they trust can help youth form a positive sense of personal identity, so try asking open ended questions like: What do you think has the biggest influence on how you see yourself? What about how other people perceive you?
The best way to show your team you care? Be there. Learn more at www.twelvetalks.com
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Jefferson County Public LibraryJeffco Public Libraries have been providing resources and virtual events for individuals and families this entire last year. This summer they have their reading program to encourage kids to keep learning over the summer. Find a location near you and start reading today!
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