Credit Office of the Governor - Michelle Lujan Grisham
Over 162,900 COVID vaccines have been administered in New Mexico and more than 60% of those in Phase 1A have already been vaccinated.
New Mexico Health Secretary Dr. Tracie Collins says the state intends to offer the vaccine to the general public by mid-2021. The state began its effort by targeting the most vulnerable populations.
“We started in Phase 1A with health care personnel, frontline and also first responders, those taking care of patients. We’ve now opened up the initial part of Phase 1B, which are individuals 75 years of age or older,” Collins said. “We will then move to individuals who are 16 or older with underlying medical conditions, followed by frontline essential workers and vulnerable populations.”
The New Mexico State University system will play a key role in helping the New Mexico Department of Health distribute doses of a COVID-19 vaccine to the general public at its campuses throughout the state. The collaboration will leverage NMSU locations, resources and expertise to help aid in vaccine distribution. Point of distribution carts are set up at New Mexico State Universitys Aggie Health and Wellness Center. NMSU purchased and equipped the carts in preparation to provide vaccine distribution for the community on its Las Cruces campus. (NMSU photo)
The NMDOH has already begun the first phase of vaccine distribution, targeting healthcare workers in hospitals and long-term care facilities, as well as first responders and elderly residents of long-term care facilities. As the state moves into Phase 2, the vaccine will be available to other older patients, those with underlying conditions, other vulnerable populations and essential workers. Later phase