230K New Mexicans sign up on state vaccine registration site

SANTA FE – More than 230,000 New Mexicans have signed up since the state launched its vaccination registration website two weeks ago, state health officials said Monday.

The New Mexico Department of Health said the site has been updated to allow people to complete a comprehensive profile that includes personal medical conditions, employment information and other data.

Officials said the site was created to help manage distribution once more vaccines become available. Those who register will be notified when they become eligible and shots are available in their area.

Health Secretary Dr. Tracie Collins has said the state is working on plans for distribution to groups beyond the initial waves of front-line health care workers and staff and residents at nursing homes and other long-term care facilities. She expected to have more information this week on how the shots will be prioritized.

“Our highest priorities remain the same: ensuring that vaccine goes to those who are most exposed to infected people or infectious materials, and preventing vaccine from going to waste,” Collins said in a statement issued Monday.

The state also plans to launch a call center to provide additional support for those who wish to register or ask questions about the process.

State health officials reported that confirmed COVID-19 infections in New Mexico now total 147,315, including the 936 additional cases reported Monday. More than 2,570 deaths have been linked to the virus since the pandemic began.