Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham on Friday signed an executive order expanding eligibility for COVID-19 booster shots to all New Mexico adults as part of the state’s strategy to address rising case numbers and hospitalizations, a trend being seen nationwide.
“As we have throughout this unpredictable and unprecedented global pandemic, we always stand ready to quickly implement new tools and policies in our fight against this terrible disease,” said Lujan Grisham. “I strongly encourage every New Mexican to register for a booster today – we have appointments available and are ready to get shots in arms.”
The Centers for Disease Control’s eligibility criteria for boosters include adults 18+ who live or work in a high-risk setting.
New Mexico joins other states – including California and Colorado – that have made boosters available to all adults 18+. “Case counts are significant, spread rates are far too high, and the Delta variant is far more transmissible than previous variants. In addition, our hospitals are well beyond capacity, and several have declared Crisis Standards of Care,” said Department of Health Acting Secretary David R. Scrase, M.D. “Those factors absolutely make New Mexico a high-risk setting.”
New Mexicans aged 18 and over may now schedule a booster shot if:
- They received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine more than two months ago OR
- They completed the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine series more than six months ago
“Providing boosters for adults will significantly increase levels of immunity protection across our state – and that’s essential for all of us. COVID-19 is incredibly opportunistic – and it’s our job to ensure that the virus has fewer and fewer opportunities to spread,” said Secretary Scrase. “If it’s time for you to get a booster, please do so right away.”
While the vaccines remain highly effective at preventing hospitalizations and deaths, new data suggests that immunity protection can wane over time – leading to more vaccine breakthrough cases. As immunity protection wanes, the immunized become more susceptible to infection – though their infections are typically much milder than those among unvaccinated individuals.
Health officials also strongly recommend that children 5-17 receive vaccinations.
New Mexicans can sign up for initial vaccinations and booster shots at VaccineNM.org. Instructions for scheduling children’s vaccinations are also available here.
The state’s indoor mask mandate has also been extended until Dec. 10.