It’s not too late to get your flu vaccine before the holidays

SANTA FE—New Mexicans are strongly encouraged to get their flu vaccines before holiday celebrations to help keep all of us safe and healthy. Currently, about 20% of New Mexicans eligible for the flu vaccine have gotten their shot. Everyone six months and older is eligible for the vaccine. 

“Getting vaccinated is the best way to stay healthy during the holiday season so we can spend more time with family and friends,” said Miranda Durham, Chief Medical Officer at the Department of Health (DOH). “Getting the flu shot reduces your risk of getting the flu and lessens the severity of symptoms if you do get sick. Take a few minutes from the holiday rush to take care of yourself and get vaccinated.” 

Getting vaccinated yourself may also protect people around you including those who are most vulnerable, such as: 

• People age 65 and older 
• Young children, especially those under 2 years old 
• Pregnant people  
• People with chronic health conditions such as asthma, diabetes and heart disease 

Flu vaccines are safe and effective. Every year, experts update the flu vaccines to best protect against the flu viruses expected to spread during the upcoming season. This year’s vaccine seems to be well-matched to the virus and could reduce the risk of flu illness by 40 to 60%.  

The best time to get vaccinated is before the flu has begun to spread, but it isn’t too late. We are already seeing the flu in New Mexico, which is even more reason to get your shot as soon as possible. Flu most commonly peaks in February but can continue into May. 

To find a flu vaccine appointment near you, visit vaccinenm.org or you can contact your local public health office. If you are having trouble locating an appointment or need help scheduling, you can call the DOH Helpline at 1-833-SWNURSE (1-833-796-8773), which operates from 7 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Friday and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on weekends. 

Other steps you can take to help curb the spread of the flu and other respiratory diseases like RSV and COVID include: 

• Stay up to date on flu, COVID-19 and RSV vaccinations 
• Get tested if you have symptoms—it’s possible to have flu and COVID at the same time     
• Stay home if you or your child is sick 
• Wash hands thoroughly and frequently 
• Keep common, high touch surface areas clean and regularly disinfected 
• Masks can help reduce the spread of respiratory viruses. Wearing a high-quality mask while you travel, for example, can help protect you and others 
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread easily this way 

For more information visit the DOH website. 

Media Contact

We would be happy to provide additional information about this press release. Simply contact David Barre at (505) 699-9237 (Office) with your questions.

Versión en Español

En un esfuerzo para hacer que nuestros comunicados de prensa sean más accesibles, también tenemos disponibles una versión en español. Por favor presione el enlace de abajo para acceder a la traducción.

Nunca es tarde para vacunarse contra la gripe antes de los días festivos