New Mexico made moves Friday to make it easier for residents to get updated COVID-19 vaccinations at pharmacies.

The changes, which state leaders said they were working on for the last week, include updated guidance from the state Department of Health and protocols from the New Mexico Board of Pharmacy. The changes follow reports that inconsistent federal recommendations have led some pharmacies to refuse to provide the vaccine in New Mexico.

"Starting now, pharmacists can prescribe and administer COVID-19 vaccines using state health department guidelines instead of waiting for federal recommendations," a Health Department news release issued Friday said. "This means faster access to vaccines as we head into fall and winter respiratory illness season."

The state Health Department has re

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