Each year, New Mexico reports thousands of emergency department visits and hospitalizations for respiratory illnesses like influenza, COVID-19, pneumonia and asthma. 

During the 2024-2025 season, state health officials described flu activity and related hospitalizations as among the most severe in recent years.  

As cooler, drier air settles across Albuquerque and the high desert, it is important to know when an illness requires professional care and how to protect yourself and your family. 

The Common Cold in a Dry Climate 

The common cold, a viral infection of the nose and throat, is a frequent visitor during the fall and winter. While typically not serious, it can leave you feeling drained. The arid New Mexico climate can dry out nasal passages, potentially making individuals more susceptible to cold viruses. 

Symptoms often include a runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, sneezing and general fatigue. Most colds resolve within a week to 10 days. However, adults should see a doctor for a fever above 101.3 degrees that lasts more than three days, shortness of breath or a cough that worsens. For infants up to 12 weeks old, any fever of 100.4 degrees or higher warrants immediate medical attention. 

chart showing a boy blocking his cough in different waysHow to stay healthy: 

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. 
  • Disinfect high-touch surfaces like doorknobs, light switches and phones. 
  • Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze. 
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick. 
  • Support your immune system with a balanced diet, hydration and adequate rest. 

Flu and COVID-19  

Influenza, often called the flu, is a contagious respiratory virus that can range from mild to severe. Symptoms tend to come on quickly and may include fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches and significant fatigue. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says the risk of serious complications is highest for children younger than 5, adults older than 65, people who are pregnant and those with chronic conditions or weakened immune systems. 

New Mexico’s flu season usually rises in late fall and peaks in winter months. At the same time, COVID-19 continues to circulate statewide and in winter, health officials urge everyone eligible to get vaccinated against both the flu and COVID-19.  

Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent severe illness, hospitalization, and death caused by these viruses. Public health experts also recommend practicing good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, and staying home if feeling unwell, to reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses. 

Asthma in New Mexico 

Asthma is one of the most common chronic health conditions in our state, affecting nearly 200,000 New Mexicans—about one-fourth of them children. The dry, windy climate can trigger asthma symptoms or make them worse, especially during the winter when respiratory viruses are widespread. 

Common asthma symptoms include wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness and persistent coughing, often worsening at night or early in the morning. People with asthma should pay close attention to their symptoms, as respiratory infections like colds or flu can lead to severe asthma attacks. 

Prevention and management: 

  • Work with your healthcare provider to create and follow an asthma action plan. 
  • Take prescribed asthma medications as directed, even when you feel well. 
  • Avoid exposure to tobacco smoke and strong odors. 
  • Stay indoors on high-pollen or windy days and use an air purifier if possible. 
  • Schedule regular checkups and talk to your doctor if symptoms change or worsen. 

Get Immediate Care  

Unlike most ERs or urgent care centers in the area, PRESNow 24/7 Urgent and Emergency Care in Albuquerque, patients are only billed for the level of services they need. The ER and urgent care are open 24 hours a day, every day. No appointment is required for in-person visits. 

PRESNow 24/7 Urgent and Emergency Care has four convenient locations: 

  • PRESNow 24/7 Urgent and Emergency Care Paseo/San Pedro is located at 6400 Paseo Del Norte Blvd. NE, Albuquerque, NM 87113, and may be reached at 505-596-2100. 
  • PRESNow 24/7 Urgent and Emergency Care Coors/Western Trail is located at 4515 Coors Blvd. NW Albuquerque, NM 87120, and may be reached at 505-596-2200. 
  • PRESNow 24/7 Urgent and Emergency Care Isleta/Rio Bravo is located at 3436 Isleta Blvd SW, Albuquerque, NM 87105, and may be reached at 505-596-2300. 
  • PRESNow 24/7 Urgent and Emergency Care Menaul/Pennsylvania is located at 7400 Menaul Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87110, and may be reached at 505-596-2400.