Headline:
San Luis Set to Roll Out WHO)”>Dengue Vaccination Drive in 2025, Focusing on High-Risk Groups
Article:
The Ministry of Health in San Luis province is gearing up to administer the ‘Qdenga’ dengue vaccine from mid-January 2025, prioritizing healthcare professionals and individuals who contracted the disease during the 2023-2024 season. Around 3,000 patients are expected to receive their first dose, marking a significant step in the province’s fight against dengue.
Approval from the World Health Organization (WHO) for the Qdenga vaccine came after it demonstrated high efficacy and safety in clinical trials, prompting the ministry to initiate this vaccination drive. The targeted recipients are those who have been diagnosed with dengue in the past and are between 5 and 60 years old, aligning with the WHO’s recommendations.
Eligibility and Exclusion Criteria
Vaccination is open to individuals who:
- Have been registered as positive dengue cases in the Integrated Health Information System (SISA) in 2023-2024.
- Can provide a medical certificate and laboratory results confirming dengue diagnosis.
- Have already received the first dose and are eligible for the second.
However, the vaccine is not recommended for:
- Children under 5 years old.
- Individuals over 60 years old.
- People with congenital or acquired immunodeficiency, HIV infection, pregnancy, or lactation, as they should not receive live vaccines.
- Those with a history of hypersensitivity to the vaccine’s active ingredients or any of its excipients.
Vaccination Process
The ministry will inform eligible patients registered in SISA via text message, indicating the date, time, and location for their vaccine appointment. The vaccination will be provided free of charge at designated healthcare centers based on each patient’s residential proximity.
Individuals not registered in SISA can only receive the vaccine if they present a medical certificate and a laboratory-confirmed dengue diagnosis.
Facts and Figures
In San Luis, 3,111 patients aged 5 to 59 Jahren and 566 individuals over 60 years old were affected by dengue. Although those older than 60 are not included in the vaccination plan, the ministry encourages everyone to stay vigilant and seek medical attention if symptoms arise.
Importance of Vaccination
Dengue fever often causes mild symptoms or may go unnoticed. In rarer cases, it can worsen and become life-threatening. Individuals infected for the second time are at higher risk of developing severe complications, stressing the importance of receiving the Qdenga vaccine.
Stay informed and stay safe – with the Qdenga vaccine rollout, San Luis province takes a significant stride towards battling dengue fever and protecting its citizens.
