New Mexico removes barriers to COVID-19 vaccines

Statewide standing order makes vaccines available without prescriptions

SANTA FE – The New Mexico Department of Health has issued a standing order that expands access to updated 2025-2026 COVID-19 vaccines by allowing healthcare providers and pharmacists to vaccinate anyone six months and older without requiring individual prescriptions. 

The standing order addresses barriers that have prevented some New Mexicans from getting vaccinated. While most people could already receive vaccines through their providers, some pharmacists and healthcare providers were hesitant to vaccinate certain groups without formal prescription backup, particularly for off-label uses not specifically covered in FDA approvals.

“This removes hesitation some providers had about vaccinating people who would benefit from the vaccine but fell outside the narrow FDA approval categories,” said Dr. Miranda Durham, New Mexico Department of Health’s Chief Medical Officer. “COVID-19 vaccines remain safe and effective tools for preventing severe illness, hospitalization, and death.”

This order is part of ongoing efforts to make vaccination more accessible across the state. It reaffirms NMDOH’s guidance that everyone six months and older—including pregnant individuals—should stay up to date on COVID-19 vaccinations to help prevent severe illness, hospitalization, and death.

“We are clearing the way for New Mexicans who want the vaccine to get the vaccine,” said NMDOH Secretary Gina DeBlassie. “This standing order ensures that barriers don’t prevent people from protecting their health.” 

The FDA approved updated 2025-2026 COVID-19 vaccinations on August 27, for the current respiratory virus season. While the FDA approvals focused on specific high-risk groups, the New Mexico standing order allows providers to use their clinical judgement to vaccinate anyone who would benefit, following the evidence-based state guidelines. 

In addition, the New Mexico Health Care Authority confirms individuals enrolled in Medicaid will have the full cost of their COVID-19 vaccines covered. 

Anyone denied a COVID-19 vaccine should call the New Mexico Department of Health Helpline at 1-833-796-8773.  

Both the standing order and NMDOH’s guidance on COVID vaccination are available on NMHealth.org.