Flu Cases Surge in New Mexico as Hospitalizations Outpace Covid-19

Flu Season Strikes Hard

As the holiday season approaches, New Mexico is witnessing a significant uptick in flu activity, marking a troubling trend for residents. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the state’s flu activity is currently classified as ‘high,’ placing it among the top third of U.S. states for flu cases as of December 13.

Hospitalization Trends

Recent data from the New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) reveals that hospitalizations due to influenza have now surpassed those for COVID-19 during this flu season. This alarming trend is particularly pronounced among vulnerable populations, including infants, school-aged children, and adults over 75 years old. Emergency department visits for flu-related illnesses have doubled in December compared to November, which itself experienced a doubling from October.

Geographic Concentration of Flu Activity

The flu outbreak is concentrated primarily in the Albuquerque metro area, encompassing Bernalillo, Valencia, Torrance, and Sandoval counties. A notable flu outbreak was reported in a long-term care facility in mid-December, highlighting the risks associated with communal living environments during this season.

National Context

On a national scale, flu hospitalizations reached approximately 4,955 for the week ending December 6, with a rate of 1.5 per 100,000 population, according to the CDC. This increase aligns with rising flu activity trends across the country, especially amid the busy holiday travel period.

Vaccination Rates and Public Health Recommendations

Despite the rising flu cases, vaccination rates in New Mexico remain low, with only 21% of residents having received the 2026 flu vaccine and just 10% having obtained the latest COVID vaccine. The NMDOH is urging residents to get vaccinated, particularly those in vulnerable groups, to mitigate the impact of this flu season.

Historical Context and Future Implications

This season’s hospitalization rates for flu are among the highest recorded in the past decade, particularly affecting infants under five and the elderly. The CDC estimates that annual flu hospitalizations can range from 140,000 to 710,000 nationally, emphasizing the critical need for awareness and preventive measures as flu activity continues to rise.

As flu hospitalizations eclipse those of COVID-19, New Mexicans are reminded to take precautions, especially during gatherings this holiday season. The shift in respiratory illness dynamics underscores the need for continued vigilance in public health initiatives.