New Mexico recommends updated 2026-27 COVID-19 vaccines

New Mexico has extended a statewide standing order for updated 2026-27 COVID-19 vaccines, which are expected to begin arriving next week.

New Mexico recommends updated 2026-27 COVID-19 vaccines
A health care worker prepares a vaccine dose in a syringe. (Mufid Majnun / Unsplash)

Statewide standing order allows providers to vaccinate anyone requesting the updated shot under state health guidance

Organ Mountain News report

SANTA FE - New Mexico health officials are recommending the updated 2026-27 COVID-19 vaccine and have extended a statewide standing order allowing providers to vaccinate anyone requesting the shot.

The New Mexico Department of Health said Tuesday that the updated vaccines are expected to begin arriving in the state next week.

The Food and Drug Administration approved the 2026-27 vaccines Aug. 27 for the current respiratory virus season. Although the federal approvals focused on specific high-risk groups, New Mexico’s standing order allows providers to vaccinate people under the state’s evidence-based guidance without requiring individual prescriptions.

“This standing order provides access for anyone requesting a 2026-2027 COVID vaccine,” Dr. Miranda Durham, the department’s chief medical officer, said in a statement. “COVID-19 vaccines remain safe and effective tools for preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death.”

State health officials said vaccination is particularly important for adults 65 and older, people at increased risk of severe COVID-19 and anyone who has never been vaccinated.

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Vaccination also is recommended during pregnancy because it can provide protection for both the pregnant person and the infant after birth, according to the department.

The New Mexico Health Care Authority said Medicaid will cover the full cost of COVID-19 vaccination for enrolled members.

People seeking more information, or anyone who is denied a COVID-19 vaccine, can call the Department of Health Helpline at 1-833-796-8773.

The standing order and the state’s COVID-19 vaccination guidance are available at nmhealth.org/about/phd/idb/imp/imsc/.

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