ALBUQUERQUE, N. M. – With holiday cheer all around, fitness officials must warn the public about a spike in COVID-19 and the flu.
“I know it’s hard for other people who are on vacation, they actually need to see their families, but our COVID tests are not the best and you might get the flu or RSV. It’s very important that if you’re not feeling well, you stay away from others,” said Madison Schaeffer, director of the NMDOH Hotline.
The New Mexico Department of Health says its biggest fear is a contagious new strain of COVID-19, JN. 1.
“We are seeing upticks there and usually what happens is something goes on in Europe and then to the east coast and then it eventually makes its way to NM,” Schaeffer said.
The best thing to do is roll up your sleeve and get vaccinated.
“Get your booster before you go on a holiday trip. I know it’s not the ideal time, but it’s a smart idea to do it before you travel,” Schaeffer said.
“I think vaccination rates are too low, about 40% of adults have been vaccinated against the flu and about 18% of adults have received the updated COVID vaccine,” said Mandy Cohen, director of the CDC.
Washing your hands and wearing a mask will also help protect you and your loved ones this holiday season.
“When visiting people who enjoy, especially elderly or immunocompromised people, you have to be careful, you may wear a mask. Especially if you’re traveling and you’re on a plane or visiting your doctor’s workplace in a position where there are a lot of people in poor health,” Schaeffer said.
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