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State health officials urge flu vaccinations before holiday gatherings
SANTA FE – New Mexicans should get their flu shots now, before holiday travel and gatherings increase the risk of spreading illness.
The New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) is marking Influenza Vaccination Week, Dec. 1-5, by reminding residents that it takes up to two weeks to build full protection after vaccination.
“Early December is a great time to get a flu shot because it takes up to two weeks to build up the maximum protection the flu vaccine provides,” said Andrea Romero, NMDOH immunization program manager. “Shots will better protect you and your loved ones before the season of travel and get-togethers.”
Everyone six months and older is eligible for the vaccine, but high-risk people prone to serious flu complications include:
- People at any age with asthma, diabetes, lung, heart disease or other chronic health conditions.
- Pregnant individuals up to two weeks post-partum.
- Children younger than five years old, especially those younger than two years old.
- People aged 50 and older.
- People who live in nursing homes and other long-term care facilities – including the healthcare personnel who work there and care for them.
The flu vaccine is covered by Medicare Part B, New Mexico Medicaid (Turquoise Care) and all private insurance. Public health offices offer flu shots to all children and underinsured/uninsured adults. Anyone having trouble scheduling a flu shot can call the NMDOH Helpline: 1-833-SWNURSE (1-833-796-8773) for assistance.
Adults and children with insurance can also contact their local pharmacy or primary care provider to get a flu shot.
For children 18 and under, vaccines are available with or without health insurance from a Vaccines for Children provider. Information on the Vaccines for Children program can be found at https://www.nmhealth.org/about/phd/idb/imp/vfc/.
Contact the nearest public health office for an appointment for children and uninsured/underinsured adults. A list of locations is available online: https://www.nmhealth.org/location/public/.
Vaccination rates in New Mexico and throughout flu season are available at https://nmdoh-reports.shinyapps.io/ViralRespiratoryInfectionDashboard/.
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