State, local officials announce start of 2022-2023 flu season

It was at the beginning of November the New Mexico Department of Health (DOH) announced the start of the 2022-2023 flu season as positive flu tests are being reported around the state by clinical laboratories and outpatient facilities.

“A triple threat of respiratory illnesses this year is very concerning because all are very contagious,” acting DOH Cabinet Secretary David R. Scrase said.

Scrase said there’s a rise in respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), particularly among infants; a rise of influenza cases and the continuation of COVID-19.

In a DOH news release Scrase urged New Mexicans get their annual flu shot and are up-to-date with their COVID-19 boosters.

Scrase said reducing the strain on the staff of hospitals statewide and the health care system nationwide is very important.

The New Mexico DOH recommends that everyone six months of age and older get the annual flu vaccine each flu season.

“You can get the COVID-19 vaccine and an influenza vaccine at the same time,” Scrase said.

In Clovis, Plains Regional Medical Center Hospital Chief Executive Jorge Cruz said,

“We are seeing RSV earlier in the season this year and also more cases than in previous years. We have not seen a high number of flu cases yet this year, but we do know that flu is also increasing across the state.”

Cruz said PRMC staff continues to encourage the community to access flu shots and COVID-19 boosters if and when they are eligible.

Cruz pointed out to prevent respiratory illnesses like RSV, which are particularly common among young children, families can encourage frequent hand washing, covering coughs and sneezes, staying home from school when sick and avoiding crowded indoor places.