Health officials are urging residents to get vaccinated now rather than wait until flu cases increase as respiratory virus season has arrived in New Mexico.
Meghan Brett, an infectious-disease physician and hospital epidemiologist at The University of New Mexico Hospital, said October is a good time to get a flu shot because protection can last through the typical flu season, which can extend into March or April.
“Now’s the time to get the flu vaccine to protect you for the entire flu season,” Brett said.
The vaccine is recommended for everyone 6 months and older, importantly for people with underlying health conditions who face a higher risk of serious complications from influenza.
Brett said vaccination can reduce the likelihood of hospitalization by about 30% to 40% and may also shorten illness duration.
Flu vaccination is available through health care providers and local pharmacies, and a prescription generally is not required. The New Mexico Department of Health also provides an online map showing locations offering flu vaccinations.
Brett said people should not assume that getting the flu once they are protected for the remainder of the season. Multiple strains can circulate at the same time. A person who has recovered from one strain can still become infected with another.
The same applies to people who delay vaccination until later in the season.
“There’s no reason not to get vaccinated later in the season,” Brett said.
For people who develop symptoms such as fever, coughing, and a runny nose, Brett recommends testing for influenza, particularly for those with conditions such as heart, kidney, and liver disease.
Testing can help distinguish flu from COVID-19, which can cause similar symptoms but may require different treatment. People at higher risk for complications may benefit from early treatment, Brett said.
“People can die from the flu,” Brett said. “That happens every year.”
Health officials also recommend protection against other respiratory viruses. Brett encouraged eligible residents to consider COVID-19 vaccination as well, noting that receiving flu and COVID-19 vaccines at the same time does not reduce their effectiveness.
Some people also may benefit from vaccination against respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV. Brett particularly recommends RSV vaccination for pregnant people, adults 50 and older, and those with underlying health conditions, with additional emphasis on adults 75 and older.
Flu vaccines are available as a standard shot and nasal spray. A higher-dose version is also available for some older adults. Health care providers and pharmacists can help determine which option is appropriate.
With respiratory virus season underway, Brett said vaccination and early testing help reduce severe illness and keep people from needing hospital care.
