New Mexico calls for booster shots for workers in response to Omicron outbreak

NEW MEXICO – The state of New Mexico issued a modification to its emergency public health order to require workers to effectively receive a booster vaccine against Covid-19 when they are eligible to protect against the spread of the virus.

The modification comes at a time when the World Health Organization (WHO) and governments around the world have expressed concern that the variant identified, as Omicron, may spread a more transmissible version of the disease.

The New Mexico government said that while experts warn that much is still unknown about the new variant, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention this week expanded its recommendation for booster vaccines against Covid-19.

“The recent emergence of the Omicron variant further underscores the importance of vaccination, boosters and prevention efforts needed to protect against the disease,” said Rochelle Walensky, director of the CDC.

The state public health order was issued Dec. 2 by Acting Health Secretary David R. Scrase. The instruction states that workers must receive a booster dose no later than Jan. 17, 2022, or within four weeks of becoming eligible.

The Food and Drug Administration has approved all adults to receive a booster dose either six months after completing a Pfizer or Moderna vaccination series, or two months after a Johnson & Johnson vaccination.

According to state government information, available beds in New Mexico remain dangerously scarce, so several hospitals have implemented crisis care standards, meaning they may be forced to ration patient visits.

The state requirement to wear facemasks in all indoor public spaces remains in effect. In addition, it was reported that nearly 75 percent of eligible adults in New Mexico have completed their vaccination schedule, and more than 85 percent have received at least one dose.

Source: MEXICO.NOW Staff