SANTA FE  —  The 2024-2025 influenza (flu) season has begun.

The New Mexico Department of Health’s Scientific Laboratory Division confirms the first patients testing positive for seasonal flu, with NMHealth also aware of elevated numbers of flu cases in the Northwest part of the state.

“Now is a good time to get your flu vaccination before we start to see flu activity statewide,” MHealth Secretary Patrick Allen said. “Getting you and your family vaccinated every year helps reduce the chances of getting sick, missing work or school, or developing serious illness.”

Flu vaccines are updated annually to offer the best protection against the virus. NMHealth recommends flu...

SANTA FE  — October is Community Health Workers Month and Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham issued a proclamation in recognition of their public service in the state.

“This month gives us the opportunity to thank community health workers for their vital contributions to healthcare across New Mexico,” Chief Medical Officer for the New Mexico Department of Health Dr. Miranda Durham said.

On Oct. 29 and 30, New Mexico’s Community Health Workers will come together for two days of learning, training and building a supportive CHW community at their third annual conference. The theme of this year’s conference is “CHW/Rs Changing the Landscape of New Mexico!” and it will take place...

The University of New Mexico-Gallup will receive $4 million for the phase 3 renovation of Gurley Hall if voters approve New Mexico’s General Obligation Bond 3 for higher education during the 2024 General Election.

This fall, GO Bond 3 will ask voters to authorize the state to issue more than $230 million in bonds to fund public higher education institutions, special public schools and tribal schools. Approval of the bond would not raise taxes.

“GO bonds are a valuable tool for supporting essential public infrastructure projects, including building renovations at UNM-G,” UNM-Gallup Chancellor Dr. Sabrina Ezzell said.

WHAT IS A GO BOND?

GO bonds are the primary source of capital...

OFPL seeks funding for new position

Locals around Gallup who struggle with alcohol and substance abuse have a bevy of resources to aid them. However, there is another key issue that many people may be facing, but with fewer places to turn to: their mental wellbeing.

Octavia Fellin Public Library Director Tammi Moe agrees with the lack of mental health resources in Gallup. The library offers numerous services to the public as is, but she believes that they can add that crucial support to that list.

“Right now, you can’t just walk into the library and say ‘I need mental health support’ and ask one of the front clerks about that because they’re not knowledgeable,” Moe said...