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Round Two For Flu In New Mexico

Auntie P. via Compfight CC

The weather’s warming up, but flu season’s not quite over. Even if you already had the flu this season, if you feel ill, you could have it again. A second virus is making its way around New Mexico. 

Joan Baumbach, an epidemiologist with the state’s Department of Health, said children, elderly folks or people suffering from other illnesses are the most vulnerable. "We did have a pediatric death," she said. "We’ve also had a number of non-pediatric deaths. If someone thinks they might have the flu—or, you know, one of your family members, loved ones—you really want to see a health care provider as soon as possible."

Baumbach says anti-viral medications are essential to preventing bad outcomes, and hospital patients should be treated as soon as possible, even before influenza is confirmed through testing.

If you didn’t get a vaccination, you still can, and it might be helpful. If you already were vaccinated, you don’t need to do it again. 

Marisa Demarco began a career in radio at KUNM News in late 2013 and covered public health for much of her time at the station. During the pandemic, she is also the executive producer for Your NM Government and No More Normal, shows focused on the varied impacts of COVID-19 and community response, as well as racial and social justice. She joined Source New Mexico as editor-in-chief in 2021.
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