LAS CRUCES – New Mexico health officials say the state will continue recommending the full schedule of childhood vaccinations despite a new executive order from President Donald Trump seeking to reduce the number of vaccines recommended for children.
The New Mexico Department of Health announced Wednesday that it will maintain its existing childhood vaccination recommendations and continue supporting access to the full schedule of vaccines for parents and guardians who choose them for their children.
According to NMDOH, the president’s executive order calls for reducing the number of recommended childhood vaccinations from 17 to 11 and seeks changes to when and how some vaccines are administered.
State health officials say New Mexico will instead continue using the childhood immunization schedule recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics as a guide.
“Our message remains the same: the science is clear — vaccines are safe, effective and save children’s lives,” said Dr. Miranda Durham, chief medical officer for NMDOH.
The department pointed to the current increase in measles cases nationwide and the approaching flu season as reasons vaccinations remain an important tool in protecting children from potentially serious diseases.
NMDOH is encouraging parents and caregivers to discuss individual vaccination decisions with their health care providers.
According to the department, childhood vaccinations will continue to be covered through the Vaccines for Children Program, Medicaid and private insurance.
New Mexicans with questions about vaccinations or vaccine safety can contact their health care provider or call the NMDOH Helpline at 1-833-SWNURSE, or 1-833-796-8773. Questions can also be sent by text message to 66364.
John Krehbiel – Bravo Mic Communications News – John@bravomic.com
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