Las Vegas, NM– (12/7/2022) – The switch today to online learning for schools in Las Vegas for the rest
of the week highlights the surge of respiratory illness impacting our community.
Experts warn of a “tridemic” occurring as concurrent surges of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), COVID-19,
and the flu increase throughout Las Vegas, New Mexico and the country as a whole.
Las Vegas specifically and New Mexico generally are grappling with an alarming uptick in cases for COVID19, flu and RSV. UNM Children’s Hospital Associate Chief Medical Officer Dr. Anna Duran says the
Children’s Hospital continues to operate at or above capacity. This year, Duran says, the respiratory case
spike came quicker than many years past.
State reports indicate a rise in “influenza-like illness” (ILI) related visits in New Mexico’s emergency
departments. From October through November, a state report published November 14 indicates a rise
from roughly 2% of hospital visits to roughly 7% of hospital visits being for influenza-like illnesses.
Local physician Raymond Ortiz, MD emphasizes, “We continue to encourage residents to get their COVID
booster and flu shot to protect against severe illness and hospitalization. It’s important to get vaccinated
now. People can find a dose at a pharmacy or primary care provider office.”
“Prescription flu antiviral drugs are available to help treat flu illnesses, but they must be started as early
as possible to be effective. Seek medical care for any breathing difficulties, persistent fevers, or worsening
of symptoms,” added Dr. Ortiz.
The Emergency Department at Alta Vista Regional Hospital is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to serve
San Miguel and neighboring counties. Patients can also schedule an in-person or telehealth appointment
with primary care providers at AltaVistaAnytime.com.
Dr. Ortiz, an internal medicine physician at Alta Vista Regional Hospital.
About Alta Vista Regional Hospital
Alta Vista Regional Hospital is a community hospital committed to serving the healthcare needs of Northeastern New Mexico. We proudly offer a 30-minute ER pledge, which means the ER medical professionals work diligently to see patients within 30 minutes (or less) of their arrival at the ER. Online scheduling with a primary care provider is available 24/7 at AltaVistaAnytime.com. For more information on available services, please visit www.AltaVistaRegionalHospital.com.