COVID-19, Influenza, and Other Respiratory Viruses This Holiday Season

Due to high patient volumes Holy Cross Hospital is regrettably not able to offer walk-in flu testing at this time (testing may be performed at the discretion of the physician).

There is also a nationwide shortage of Tamiflu. If you do not have significant risk factors and have mild symptoms, symptomatic care is appropriate. If you are having severe symptoms, please check in to the ER to be seen by a clinician.

Holy Cross Hospital is currently caring for a large number of patients with influenza and other respiratory viruses resulting in very high patient loads. Holy Cross is not alone in these high patient loads, hospitals throughout the state of New Mexico are experiencing similar situations. Hospitals admit patients as they arrive with emergencies, if all the available beds are full with flu patients, this can cause challenges in providing care for other emergency cases. Along with the high number of flu cases, we are anticipating an increase in COVID-19 cases as we move into the winter season. 

The best way to avoid needing hospital care for influenza and COVID-19 is to stay healthy and get vaccinated. Protect your friends, family, and community by getting a flu shot and keeping your vaccinations up-to-date! 

Please take steps to protect the health of yourself and your loved ones this season:

  • Get a flu shot.
  • Perform hand hygiene frequently.
  • Avoid touching your “T-zone” (eyes, nose, and mouth).
  • Dispose of tissues and do not reuse them.
  • Be aware of social settings and social distancing.
  • If you are ill with any virus, please stay home unless you need emergency or immediate health care.
  • If you have an infant that is 6-months or younger, avoid social gatherings. RSV, influenza, and other respiratory illnesses are spreading widely among children and avoiding social gatherings can help protect you and your child.
  • If you are a high risk individual, consider wearing a mask in public and avoid social gatherings when possible.

Holy Cross Hospital Emergency Medical Physician Dr. Amy Martin discusses the current flu season in Taos, when it might be appropriate to seek emergency medical care, and tips on preventing illness.

If you have a primary care provider, contact them about getting an influenza or COVID-19 vaccine. Flu and COVID-19 shots may also be available at the following locations in Taos:

Albertsons Market
https://www.albertsons.com/pharmacy/pharmacy-services/immunizations/flu.html
710 A Paseo Del Pueblo Sur
Taos, NM 87571

Walgreens
https://www.walgreens.com/topic/pharmacy/seasonal-flu.jsp
811 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR
TAOS, NM 87571

Smith’s
https://www.smithsfoodanddrug.com/health/clinic/vaccinations/influenza
224 Paseo del Pueblo Sur
Taos, NM 87571

Walmart
https://www.walmart.com/cp/flu-shots-immunizations/1228302
926 Paseo Del Pueblo Sur
Taos, NM 87571