Local hospitals in Las Cruces are again offering drive-thru flu vaccinations for people six months and older. The annual Boo to the Flu event will take place from 8 a.m. to noon on Saturday, October 11, at MountainView Regional Medical Center, located at 4311 E. Lohman Ave., and Three Crosses Regional Hospital, at 2560 Samaritan Dr. Vaccines will be available while supplies last.
The flu vaccine is provided by the New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) and is free for both adults and children at these locations. People with insurance, including Medicaid or Medicare, are asked to bring their insurance cards.
“Flu vaccines are updated every year to offer the best protection against the virus,” said NMDOH Chief Medical Officer Dr. Miranda Durham. “Getting you and your family vaccinated every year helps reduce the chances of getting sick, missing work or school or developing serious illness.”
At MountainView Regional Medical Center, all individuals aged six months and older can receive drive-thru vaccinations at the hospital’s Medical Plaza at 4351 E. Lohman Ave. Traffic control staff and signs labeled “SHOT CLINIC” will guide participants through the process.
"MountainView is proud to again participate in the Boo to the Flu event, reinforcing our commitment to a healthy community," said MountainView Interim Chief Executive Officer Greg Repetti. "By providing convenient access to flu vaccinations, we help protect families and keep our community strong."
Three Crosses Regional Hospital will also host a drive-thru clinic at its campus on Samaritan Drive near North Main St., with signage directing visitors where to go.
“Protect yourself and your loved ones this flu season—visit our free flu vaccine clinic and experience the compassionate care that sets Three Crosses Regional Hospital apart,” said April Heidenreich, Three Crosses’ chief nursing officer. “High-quality, patient-centered care is the priority for our community and the reason we are here.”
NMDOH recommends annual flu vaccination for everyone six months old or older during each flu season—which typically runs from October through May—with special emphasis on groups at higher risk of complications such as young children, pregnant individuals up to two weeks postpartum, adults over 50 years old, people with chronic medical conditions like asthma or diabetes, immunocompromised individuals, residents of long-term care facilities, and those who live with or care for high-risk individuals.
Boo to the Flu is organized in partnership with NMDOH Public Health Division, MountainView Regional Medical Center, Three Crosses Regional Hospital, Las Cruces Fire Department, Las Cruces Public Schools as well as nursing students from New Mexico State University and Doña Ana Community College.
For more information about Boo to the Flu or about flu vaccinations in general, contact the NMDOH Helpline at 1-833-SWNURSE (1-833-796-8773).
