Taos, N.M. – As the New Mexico Department of Health announced the start of respiratory disease season last month, Holy Cross Medical Center is already seeing a noticeable increase in patients arriving at its Emergency Department with flu‑related complaints.
Local hospitals report typical seasonal trends
“We are seeing our usual trends of chief complaints for this season presenting to the Emergency Department,” said Brittany Hamilton, chief nursing officer at Holy Cross, in an email on Tuesday, Nov. 10. “We are entering into respiratory season and have seen some incidences of flu — nothing outside of the norm.”
Hamilton emphasized the importance of consulting a primary‑care physician and, when appropriate, receiving the flu vaccine. “Community members are encouraged to stay home if they are ill, and handwashing is one of the best preventative measures one can take,” she added.
State health officials stress vaccination
In an Oct. 22 press release, New Mexico Health Secretary Gina DeBlassie warned that the state is experiencing rising rates of COVID‑19, influenza and RSV. She recalled that last season three children and more than 80 adults in New Mexico died from these illnesses, and many more required hospitalization.
“Getting you and your family vaccinated every year helps reduce the chances of getting sick, missing work or school, or developing serious illness,” DeBlassie said. The department recommends flu shots for everyone six months of age and older, with vaccinations available through May.
Who should consider immunization?
The health department highlighted several high‑risk groups that should especially consider the flu vaccine:
- Children younger than five years, especially those under two
- Pregnant individuals up to two weeks postpartum
- People aged 50 and older
- Anyone with chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes, lung or heart disease
- Immunocompromised individuals
- Residents of nursing homes and long‑term care facilities
- Caregivers and healthcare workers who are in close contact with high‑risk persons
In addition to the flu shot, the department reminded residents that COVID‑19 vaccines are also updated annually, and that routine vaccination improves overall health and reduces severe outcomes.
RSV vaccine options
RSV vaccines are now available, primarily for adults over 75, pregnant people and infants. Some higher‑risk adults may also benefit. Residents should discuss eligibility with their providers.
How to get vaccinated
For information on vaccination sites across New Mexico, residents can call the NMDOH Helpline at 1‑833‑SWNURSE (1‑833‑796‑8773) or text 66364.
The Federal Drug Administration’s guidance on communicating vaccine risks stresses the need to present absolute risk numbers rather than relative percentages, helping patients make informed choices.
Local health officials continue to monitor the situation and encourage Taos residents to stay vigilant, practice good hygiene, and seek medical care promptly if they develop respiratory symptoms.
Original reporting: Taos News — read the source article.
