NMDOH News:

SANTA FE — The New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) reminds New Mexicans of options to get tested for COVID-19.

The guidance is intended to support New Mexicans as case counts rise across the state – and as vaccinate-or-test requirements are implemented for state employees, teachers, and workers in congregate settings.

For New Mexicans who are able to do so, the Department encourages the use of Vault at-home tests for surveillance testing. New Mexicans can order tests to be delivered to their home at no cost. To be able to use the Vault tests, a person needs access to the internet, have an email address and a photo ID.

New Mexicans also may access COVID testing at Curative sites, which can be located through the NMDOH website. The NMDOH urges New Mexicans to avoid going to health clinics, hospitals or urgent care for surveillance testing – unless symptomatic and have been exposed to COVID-19.

Best practices to stem the spread of COVID remain in place, including masking, hand-washing, and physical distancing. Masks are required in public, indoor settings. In addition, DOH encourages New Mexicans to wear a mask when in public around others; if you are sick, please stay home.

The NMDOH would like to encourage all individuals to get tested for COVID-19 if:

• You have COVID-19 symptoms including cough, fever, shortness of breath, chills, repeated shaking with chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea, and/or loss of taste or smell.
• You don’t have symptoms but were in close contact or are a household member of someone who has tested positive and are in their infectious period.  This is recommended regardless of vaccination status.
• You don’t have symptoms, but you are unvaccinated and live or work in a high-risk congregate setting such as long-term care facilities, detention centers, and correctional facilities.
• You are a patient scheduled for surgery or hospital admission, even if you’re fully vaccinated. Some medical facilities may require testing prior to surgery or admission.