New Mexico Department of Health
Recent News About New Mexico Department of Health
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Fentanyl Awareness Day highlights overdose prevention
On May 7, 2024, Fentanyl Awareness Day will be observed to shed light on overdose prevention efforts in New Mexico. The New Mexico Department of Health (NMHealth) is urging residents to familiarize themselves with the signs of fentanyl overdose and appropriate responses.NMHealth Secretary, Patrick Allen, emphasized the importance of preventing overdose deaths, stating, "Every individual has the power to stop an overdose death and help begin the cycle that leads toward that recovery."Dr. Miranda Durham, NMHealth’s Chief Medical Officer, highlighted the urgency of the...
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State program uncovers xylazine in fentanyl samples
The New Mexico Department of Health (NMHealth) has confirmed the presence of xylazine in three fentanyl samples tested through the state’s Adulterant Checking Program.Secretary Patrick Allen of NMHealth emphasized the seriousness of this discovery, stating, “The identification of xylazine puts us on notice that an already dangerous drug supply has gotten that much more deadly.”The Adulterant Checking Program, initiated in November 2023, allows individuals to have substances tested before use as part of the Harm Reduction Program. Joshua Swatek, NMHealth Hepatitis and...
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Importance of Vaccination Highlighted During National Infant Immunization Week
SANTA FE – The New Mexico Department of Health (NMHealth) is emphasizing the significance of infant immunizations during National Infant Immunization Week, which runs from April 22 to 29, 2024. Andrea Romero, Immunization Program Manager at NMHealth, stressed the importance of families keeping their children up to date on vaccinations. Romero stated, "NMHealth encourages families to discuss staying up to date on childhood vaccinations with a health professional. Together we can raise awareness and spread the importance of timely immunization. On-schedule vaccinations play a...
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April is Alcohol Awareness Month: New Mexico Takes Action to Address Alcohol Misuse
SANTA FE — In light of April being national Alcohol Awareness Month, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has approved $2 million to establish the Office of Alcohol Misuse Prevention (OAMP) within the New Mexico Department of Health. The OAMP is aimed at mitigating alcohol-related harms through coordinated prevention efforts across state agencies, promoting FDA-approved treatments for alcohol use disorder, and supporting communities in reducing excessive alcohol consumption.NMHealth Secretary Patrick Allen emphasized the importance of addressing alcohol-related issues,...
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NMHealth recognizes STI Awareness Week and encourages safe sex habits
On Apr 17, 2024, the New Mexico Department of Health (NMHealth) is urging residents to observe Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) Awareness Week and consistently practice safe sex. The initiative, which takes place in the second full week of April (14-20), seeks to increase awareness and diminish the stigma surrounding STI prevention, testing, and treatment.According to Janine Waters, the STD Program Manager, "STIs are very common. There are millions of infections each year in the United States." Waters emphasizes the importance of knowing one's STI status as a vital...
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Less stress and a better mood begin with one step
SANTA FE – The New Mexico Department of Health’s (NMHealth) Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention Program is highlighting the benefits of walking, even for just 15 minutes a day, to improve health and well-being. According to Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention Program Manager Lindsey Goodhue, “Walking is one of the best ways to manage stress, reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke and boost your mood.”Goodhue further emphasizes, "Even moderate exercise helps you to manage stress, and benefits your heart, body and mind."Wednesday, April 3 is recognized as National...
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New Mexico Department of Health Celebrates National Public Health Week
SANTA FE — The New Mexico Department of Health (NMHealth) is currently observing National Public Health Week from April 1 to 7, acknowledging the vital contributions of its staff statewide. The theme for this year's Public Health Week is Protecting, Connecting, and Thriving.Public Health Division Director, Dr. José Acosta, expressed the department's commitment to making New Mexico the healthiest state in the nation by 2040, stating, "The department is determined to reach our ‘North Star’ goal of making New Mexico the healthiest state in the nation by 2040." He emphasized...
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Quick online test determines diabetes risk
SANTA FE – Many people have heard of diabetes but may not know their own risk of developing the disease. The New Mexico Department of Health’s (NMDOH) Diabetes Prevention and Control Program estimates here, in a state of just over two million people, around 255,000 New Mexican adults had diabetes and over 587,000 New Mexican adults had prediabetes in the years 2020 through 2022. Small lifestyle changes can help people delay or avoid diabetes or prediabetes and it begins with knowing your risks. NMDOH joins the American Diabetes Association in recognizing Tuesday, March 26...
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Applications being accepted for Birthing Workforce Retention Fund
The New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) has announced that applications are now open for the Birthing Workforce Retention Fund. The fund aims to provide financial assistance to Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNM) and physicians specializing in OB and Family Medicine who offer comprehensive perinatal care, including birthing services, and require support to cover malpractice insurance premium costs.Department of Health Secretary, Patrick Allen, emphasized the significance of this initiative, stating, "This financial support to offset the cost of malpractice insurance is one...
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State’s Family Connects home visiting program achieves national certification
The New Mexico Department of Health (DOH) and New Mexico Early Childhood Education and Care Department (ECECD) proudly announced the certification of their Family Connects New Mexico (FCNM) program by Family Connects International. This achievement comes just a year after the program's launch and marks a significant milestone in providing support for caregivers and their babies during the crucial first 12 weeks of life.DOH Secretary Patrick Allen emphasized the program's commitment to equitable healthcare access, stating, "Family Connects embodies our commitment to...
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New ECHO Program Launched to Increase Colorectal Cancer Screening in New Mexico
The New Mexico Colorectal Cancer Screening ECHO Program has been launched to raise awareness about the importance of colorectal cancer screening in the state. The program, a joint effort between the New Mexico Department of Health’s Comprehensive Cancer Program, UNM’s Comprehensive Cancer Center, the American Cancer Society (ACS), and Project ECHO, aims to train and mentor healthcare providers across New Mexico.Dr. Prajakta Adsul from the UNM Comprehensive Cancer Center emphasized the need for collaboration with a health equity lens to increase screening rates, stating,...
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We can all take steps to prevent childhood traumatic brain injury
SANTA FE – Brain Injury Awareness Month, recognized each March, provides an opportunity to raise awareness of traumatic brain injury (TBI) prevention and improve the quality of life for those impacted by TBI. The New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) and the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish are recognizing Brain Injury Awareness Month by promoting prevention of childhood TBI, commonly known as concussions.Dr. Miranda Durham, Chief Medical Officer for NMDOH, emphasized the importance of taking precautions to protect children against traumatic brain injury, stating,...
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Two bobcats test positive for rabies in southwest New Mexico
The New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) Scientific Laboratory Division has confirmed that two bobcats, one in Grant County and one in Sierra County, have tested positive for rabies. One of the bobcats attacked a man near his house in Grant County, who is now receiving shots to prevent rabies. In Sierra County, a dog was attacked by the second rabid bobcat. Fortunately, the dog was up to date on his rabies vaccine, and his condition will be monitored for 45 days.According to State Public Health Veterinarian Erin Phipps, DVM, MPH, "State law requires all dogs and cats...
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Department of Health Reports Death of Man from Plague in New Mexico
The New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) has sadly reported the death of a Lincoln County man from plague, marking the first human case of plague in the state since 2021 and the first death since 2020.State Public Health Veterinarian Erin Phipps, DVM, MPH, expressed condolences, stating, “We extend our deepest sympathy to the family of the Lincoln County man who succumbed to plague. This tragic incident serves as a clear reminder of the threat posed by this ancient disease and emphasizes the need for heightened community awareness and proactive measures to prevent its...
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New Mexico Department of Health Appoints Dr. José A. Acosta as Director for Public Health Division
The New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) has announced the appointment of Dr. José A. Acosta, MD, MBA, MPH as the new Director for the Public Health Division. Dr. Acosta will begin his new role on April 1, 2024, reporting directly to Secretary Patrick Allen.Secretary Patrick Allen expressed his confidence in Dr. Acosta's abilities, stating, "I'm delighted that Dr. Acosta has accepted the challenge to step into the role as leader of our Public Health Division. He has done outstanding work in his current role leading the Developmental Disabilities Supports Division...
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Health of New Mexicans center stage on Public Health Day at Legislature
Efficient and innovative ways to improve the health of all New Mexicans will be highlighted at the New Mexico Legislature at the 9th Annual Public Health Day at the State Capitol on Monday, February 12, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event, with the theme "Threads of Wellness: A Tapestry of Public Health," aims to showcase the Department of Health's (DOH) programs and services and the efforts of community organizations statewide to provide broad healthcare opportunities for all people."The Department of Health's goal is for New Mexico to become the healthiest state in the...
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Open enrollment for 2024 Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program begins February 15th
The New Mexico Department of Health (DOH) has announced that open enrollment for the 2024 Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) will begin on February 15th. This program, overseen by the state's Women, Infants and Children program (WIC), aims to provide income-eligible seniors and elders with a shopper card that grants them a one-time annual benefit of up to $100. This benefit can be used to purchase locally grown fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, and honey at participating farmers' markets and roadside stands throughout the state.Funding for the SFMNP comes from...
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Department of Health releases renewed public health order to address increasing syphilis cases
The New Mexico Department of Health (DOH) has implemented a renewed public health order to combat the increasing occurrence of congenital syphilis, which arises from untreated syphilis, a sexually transmitted disease.
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NM Department of Health emphasizes early detection in observance of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month
The New Mexico Department of Health (DOH) is emphasizing the significance of early detection and screenings in the fight against breast cancer during National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. In a press release, the DOH outlined the symptoms and risk factors for breast cancer from the CDC.
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New Mexico departments collaborate for Fall Prevention Awareness Week
The New Mexico Department of Health (DOH) and the New Mexico Aging and Long-Term Services Department (ALTSD) unveiled their partnership on Sept. 15 to promote awareness during Fall Prevention Awareness Week. This cooperative initiative seeks to shed light on an issue impacting one out of every three seniors within the state and is set for Sept. 18-22, according to a press release.