Urgent Health Order to Enhance Vaccine Availability

SANTA FE, N.M. – In a decisive move to protect public health, the New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) has issued a groundbreaking health order aimed at maximizing the availability of COVID-19 vaccines this fall.

New FDA Guidelines Spark Action

This order comes on the heels of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) recent approval of updated COVID-19 vaccine formulas. However, the FDA has imposed new limitations, primarily restricting the vaccines to individuals aged 65 and older, with a few exceptions for younger individuals who have underlying health conditions.

Removing Barriers for Pharmacies

NMDOH's swift response was necessary as several pharmacies reported they were unable to administer the vaccine unless it was explicitly recommended by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), a key advisory group to the CDC. With ACIP yet to meet and provide guidance, NMDOH saw the need for immediate action.

Collaboration to Enhance Access

The newly issued order instructs NMDOH to collaborate with New Mexico's Board of Pharmacy to eliminate barriers and ensure that COVID-19 vaccines are readily accessible at pharmacies throughout the state.

A Commitment to Safety

Health Secretary Gina DeBlassie emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, "It’s vital for New Mexicans to know that the New Mexico Department of Health is dedicated to keeping residents safe as we approach the 2025-2026 respiratory virus season. This order will dismantle obstacles that hinder vaccination access."

Vaccines Expected Soon!

New Mexico anticipates that the updated COVID-19 vaccines will start arriving in the state within the next few weeks, ensuring that residents can quickly access the protection they need as the respiratory virus season unfolds.