Immunization clinics to be held statewide

Special immunization clinics will be held statewide through Aug. 15 for those 18 years old and younger as part of the “Got Shots?” campaign.

The New Mexico Department of Health, the New Mexico Immunization Coalition, the New Mexico Primary Care Association and healthcare providers are helping parents prepare children to go back to school.

In Tucumcari, the Department of Health office is at 310 S. Second St. One should call (575) 461-2610 to make an appointment for child immunizations.

Despite COVID-19 restrictions, children are required to be up to date on immunizations for school.

Diseases that once injured or killed thousands of children now are a rare occurrence in the United States, and some have been eliminated.

Immunizations are even more important for children and for families during the COVID pandemic.

“COVID-19 is a great example of why we need vaccines. While we don’t have a COVID vaccine yet, we are able to protect families and children against many diseases with safe effective immunizations. I encourage all New Mexico parents to take advantage of the upcoming clinics,” Health Secretary Kathy Kunkel stated in a news release.

Participating providers in “Got Shots?” will offer immunizations to any child regardless of whether they have insurance.

Due to COVID-19, there may be special procedures in place, such as waiting in the car until their child’s turn for the shot. Parents need to bring their child’s shot records and Medicaid or private health insurance card if they have insurance, though immunizations are provided at no cost.