RELEASE: New Mexico maintains full childhood vaccine recommendations despite HHS rollback

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 7, 2026

New Mexico maintains full childhood vaccine recommendations despite HHS rollback

SANTA FE – The New Mexico Department of Health will maintain its full childhood vaccination recommendations despite the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) decision to reduce the number of vaccines routinely recommended for all children.

The HHS changes, announced by Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., were not based on new scientific evidence or safety data.

“New Mexico will not follow the federal government in walking away from decades of proven public health practice,” said Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham . “Our recommendations remain unchanged.”

State health officials echoed the Governor’s commitment.

“We know this is confusing for parents, but the science is clear — vaccines are safe, effective and save children’s lives,” said Dr. Miranda Durham , chief medical officer for the New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH).

All childhood vaccinations continue to be covered under the Vaccines for Children Program, Medicaid, and private insurance. There is no anticipated change to vaccine availability in New Mexico.

The department encourages parents and caregivers to discuss vaccination decisions with their health care providers, using the American Academy of Pediatrics’ immunization schedule as a guide.

New Mexicans seeking vaccinations may call their provider or the NMDOH Helpline at 1-833-SWNURSE (1-833-796-8773).

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NMDOH

Robert Nott , Communications Director | robert.nott@doh.nm.gov | (505) 479-0147

The New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) works to promote health and wellness, improve health outcomes, and deliver services to all New Mexicans. As New Mexico’s largest state agency, NMDOH offers public health services in all 33 counties and collaborates with 24 Native American Tribes, Pueblos and Nations.

New Mexico Department of Health | 1190 S St Francis Dr | Santa Fe, NM 87505 US

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