Department of Health to release guidance on COVID-19 booster doses

SANTA FE — The New Mexico Department of Health plans to release guidance Monday on COVID-19 booster doses, following CDC approval for the Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines for certain populations. The Pfizer booster has been available since late September.

For New Mexicans who received a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine, the following groups are eligible for a booster shot at 6 months or more after completion of their initial series — 65 years and older or anybody 18 and older with underlying medical conditions, residency in long-term care settings or high-risk settings at their job or residence.

For New Mexicans who received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, booster shots are also recommended for those who are 18 and older and who were vaccinated two or more months ago.

Moderna boosters are a half dose. Immunocompromised people receiving a third shot for additional immunity, however, will continue to receive a full dose.

“Many New Mexicans will benefit from additional protection, and DOH will work hand-in-hand with our healthcare partners to ensure that boosters are available,” said Acting Health Secretary David R. Scrase. “That said, the most urgent task remains vaccinating New Mexicans who have not yet received their primary doses — and we encourage them to do so.”

New Mexicans are encouraged to schedule their primary and booster shots with their primary care physicians. They can also do so through the statewide vaccine COVID-19 vaccine registration system, vaccineNM.org. “Mix and match” booster scheduling will likely be available early next week. New Mexicans without access to the internet can call 1-855-600-3453 for scheduling assistance.

Friday case report: The state reported 982 new cases of COVID-19 on Friday, including 20 local cases — 16 in Curry County and four in Roosevelt County.

The 16 represents the highest single-day total for Curry County since the 27 cases reported Oct. 12. The county reported 29 cases Monday, but that report is a combination of Saturday, Sunday and Monday. That Oct. 12 was also the highest single-day total for Roosevelt County in the last two weeks, with 15 cases.

There have been no local deaths announced since three Curry County cases on Monday.