UNM Hospital Secures $500K for Special Pathogen Readiness; APS to Host Insurance and Vaccine Event
Albuquerque, NM – March 25, 2026 – UNM Hospital received $500,000 to strengthen special pathogen response as APS prepares a community insurance and vaccine event.
University of New Mexico Hospital is expanding its preparedness for rare but high-risk infectious diseases after receiving a $500,000 national award, while Albuquerque Public Schools is preparing to host a community wellness event offering insurance enrollment help and vaccinations.
UNM Hospital Awarded Special Pathogen Grant
UNM Hospital announced it has been selected for a $500,000 Special Pathogen Treatment, Assessment, and Network Development (STAND) award through the National Emerging Pathogens Training and Education Center.
Hospital leaders said the funding will support training, equipment and care coordination tied to high-consequence infectious diseases. UNM Hospital serves as a Level 2 Special Pathogen Treatment Center within a national network designed to respond to dangerous outbreaks.
The investment focuses on preparedness efforts such as clinical training and system coordination. While the work largely happens behind the scenes, hospital officials said it strengthens the region’s ability to safely assess and treat patients if rare infectious threats emerge.
APS Plans March Wellness Festival with Enrollment Support
Albuquerque Public Schools is also promoting a March 11 Wellness Festival at APS City Center from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., open to the broader community.
According to APS, the event will include on-site assistance with Medicaid and Medicare enrollment, as well as information about affordable health insurance options. APS said free vaccinations will be available, including MMR vaccines for attendees and flu vaccines for children 18 and younger.
District officials said multiple insurers and local health providers are expected to participate, offering information tables and support services for families seeking coverage or preventive care resources.
Measles Cases Reported Elsewhere in New Mexico
State health officials recently confirmed additional measles cases connected to detention facilities in southern New Mexico, bringing the statewide total to five confirmed cases in 2026. Officials have said the infections were associated with individuals transferred from another state and that isolation and quarantine measures were being used.
At the time of reporting, state officials said they were not aware of exposures outside those facilities. The New Mexico Department of Health nurse helpline is available at 1-833-796-8773 for residents seeking general information about measles and vaccination resources.
What Residents Should Know
Preparedness investments at UNM Hospital are focused on rare infectious threats and do not indicate a current local outbreak. Families interested in insurance enrollment or routine vaccinations can attend the APS wellness event or contact the New Mexico Department of Health for information about vaccine availability.
If you have urgent symptoms, seek medical care. For general questions, talk with a licensed clinician.
