Headline:
Galicia Surpasses National Average in Senior Flu Vaccination, Aiming for 75% Target
Article:
Galicia has emerged as a trailblazer in this year’s flu vaccination campaign, with an impressive 71.5% of its senior citizens (aged 65 and above) already inoculated against the virus. This significant milestone, according to estimates by the Gripómetro—a macro-encuesta conducted by the pharmaceutical giant Sanofi—puts the region well on track to meet the Ministry of Health’s target of vaccinating three-quarters of its senior population.
The momentum in Galicia is remarkable, considering the national average currently stands at a modest 59.4%. No other autonomous community has yet to breach the 70% mark, with Navarra (69.8%), La Rioja (67.8%), and the País Vasco (67.3%) trailing closely behind. Conversely, Canarias (47.2%), Murcia (50.3%), and Cataluña (53.1%) are at the lower end of the spectrum.
Dr. Lorenzo Armenteros, a family physician at the Centro de Salud Islas Canarias in Lugo, attributes Galicia’s success to its pioneering spirit in vaccination efforts. "Galicia has always been at the forefront of vaccinations, boasting one of the best vaccination calendars worldwide," he explains.
Galicia’s commitment to preventing influenza is evident in its expansive vaccination program. Besides seniors, the campaign targets individuals with underlying health conditions, pregnant women, and children aged 6 months to 5 years. The largest cohort is undoubtedly the seniors, with over 9 million people eligible for annual flu and COVID-19 vaccinations.
The region initiated its vaccination drive on September 23, prioritizing residents in eldercare and disability centers, along with their caregivers. On October 7, those with mobility issues and children followed suit, while general seniors and healthcare professionals joined the effort from October 14 onwards.
According to José Antonio Forcada, president of the Asociación Nacional de Enfermería y Vacunas (Ananvac), access to vaccinations plays a crucial role in achieving high uptake rates, even in regions with vast geographical dispersion like Galicia. "Having medical professionals recommend vaccinations and offering convenient appointment slots—including evenings, weekends, and no-appointment-needed times—significantly boosts vaccination rates," he says.
However, the journey to full immunity isn’t complete yet. While vaccination in children is well-established, it’s still not as deeply rooted in senior care. Forcada hopes to see more potent research groups like Professor Federico Martinón’s team at the University of Santiago de Compostela.C patrocinar el desarrollo de nueva vacunas y sistemas de administración que ayuden a erradicar estos virus.
