SANTA FE, N.M. – In a decisive move to bolster public health, the New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) issued a public health order on Friday aimed at maximizing the availability of COVID-19 vaccines this fall. This order follows the recent approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of updated COVID-19 vaccine formulas, which come with new restrictions on eligibility.
The FDA has primarily limited the distribution of the updated COVID-19 vaccines to individuals aged 65 and older. However, there are exceptions for younger individuals who have underlying health conditions. In light of these changes, the NMDOH recognized the need for immediate action, especially as some pharmacies reported being unable to administer the vaccine without a recommendation from the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), a key advisory group for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The NMDOH's public health order mandates collaboration with New Mexico’s Board of Pharmacy to eliminate potential barriers that may impede access to the COVID-19 vaccines at pharmacies statewide. This proactive approach is designed to facilitate easier and more widespread access to vaccinations as the state prepares for the upcoming respiratory virus season.
“It’s important for New Mexicans to know that the New Mexico Department of Health is committed to keeping residents safe as we enter the 2025 – 2026 respiratory virus season,” stated Health Secretary Gina DeBlassie. “This order will remove obstacles to vaccination access and ensure that all eligible individuals can receive their vaccines without unnecessary delays.”
The state anticipates that the updated COVID-19 vaccines will begin arriving in New Mexico within the next few weeks. This timely initiative underscores the importance of community health and the ongoing efforts to combat the spread of COVID-19.
