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Santiago Tops Chile in Vaccinating Seniors Against Influenza

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

Galicia‘s Anti-Grippe Vaccination Campaign Exceeds Expectations in Santiago and Barbanza

As the cold winter of 2025 sets in, the healthcare system in Galicia braces for the upcoming flu season. However, the region has reason to be optimistic, thanks to the successful progress of the anti-grippe vaccination campaign in the Santiago and Barbanza area.

Leading the Pack

The vaccination drive, targeting both the elderly and young children, has seen remarkable success. As of mid-December, the area leads the region in vaccination coverage for both seniors over 65 and children between 6 and 59 months. Theumps figure stands at 70.79% for seniors, with 81,355 out of 114,920 eligible citizens vaccinated. For children, the coverage is 69.43%, with 8,170 out of 11,768 children immunized.

Center-by-Center Performance

Breaking down the numbers, the Vite Healthcare Center in Santiago leads the pack with a 74.77% vaccination rate, while the Vedra Center boasts the highest rate among all centers at 76.84%. Meanwhile, the Rianxo Center has the lowest rate, at 60.59%.

Introducing the Intranasal Vaccine

This year marks the first time the intranasal vaccine has been administered to children aged 2 to 5. The goal was to increase coverage from 56% to 60%, a target that the Santiago area has already surpassed. The campaign continues until January 18, with the aim of further boosting vaccination rates.

Vaccination Rates Among the Elderly

The vaccination drive among seniors over 65 has seen mixed results. Those aged 80 to 84 have the highest vaccination rate at 78.86%, followed closely by those over 85, at 78.01%. The rate drops significantly for those aged 60 to 64, with only 41.22% vaccinated.

While these figures are encouraging, there is still work to be done to ensure that as many people as possible are protected against the flu this winter. With the campaign continuing until mid-January, there is still time to get vaccinated and contribute to the overall effort to keep Galicia healthy.

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Health

Minsal Weighs Mandatory COVID Vaccine for 2025

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

Title: Chile Considers Permanent COVID-19 Vaccination as Experts Recommend Integration into National Immunization Program

Five years ago, on December 31, 2019, a resident of Wuhan, China, was hospitalized with symptoms that didn’t match any known disease. This patient would become the first diagnosed with COVID-19, an infectious disease that sparked a global health crisis and was later partially controlled through mass vaccination. Chile was not immune to this global challenge.

On December 24, 2020, at 11:41 AM, Chile administered its first COVID-19 vaccine in Santiago, marking the beginning of a mass immunization campaign that has since provided over 70 million doses, including basic and booster schemes.

Now, with the coronavirus no longer the threat it once was, Chile’s epidemiological situation has evolved, leading to changes in public health strategies. In response, the Ministry of Health (Minsal) requested the Committee of Vaccines and Immunization Strategies (Cavei) to evaluate the implementation of the COVID-19 vaccine in the national immunization program starting from 2025.

After weeks of debate, the expert group recommended incorporating the COVID-19 vaccination into the Decree No. 50/2021, making it mandatory for specific groups to prevent morbidity and mortality, especially in high-risk individuals, and to preserve the integrity and capacity of the healthcare system.

This recommendation suggests that COVID-19 vaccination could become a permanent public health measure in Chile, similar to other vaccinations like influenza or measles, for specific groups.

The Cavei suggested that the same objective groups currently eligible for the vaccine would be the candidates for this strategy. Currently, the vaccine is available for those aged 60 and above, immunocompromised patients, healthcare professionals, individuals with chronic diseases, and pregnant women, provided they have completed one year since their last dose.

The expert group also recommended administering the COVID-19 and influenza vaccines simultaneously in eligible population groups to optimize vaccination opportunities and administrative logistics.

The final decision now lies with the Minsal, which is currently evaluating the Cavei’s recommendation. Meanwhile, the vaccine remains available for eligible groups at public or private vaccination centers in agreement with each regional health service.

According to the ministry’s latest report, 14 people died from the disease last week. Experts have repeatedly emphasized that vaccination has been one of the most effective measures to combat the disease.

A study by researchers from the Center for Mathematical Modeling (CMM) and Dr. Mauricio Canals from the School of Public Health at the University of Chile found that the vaccination campaign in Chile significantly mitigated the disease. The study estimated that during the 2021 and 2022 campaigns, the vaccine prevented 1,030,648 infections, 268,784 hospitalizations, 85,830 ICU admissions, and 75,968 COVID-19-related deaths in individuals aged 16 and above.

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Health

Catalan Flu Shot Clinics Brace for Surge as Vaccination Rates Decline in Catalonia

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

Catalan Clinics Resume Operations Post-New Year, Braced for Gripe Surge

Ambulatory clinics in Catalonia resumed operations on Thursday following the New Year’s Day holiday, with a sharp focus on the anticipated spike in flu cases. Preliminary indications suggest a substantial increase in flu cases over the coming weeks, with the majority of hospitalizations occurring among individuals aged 60 and above.

The Catalan Department of Health has been stressing the importance of vaccination, particularly for vulnerable populations, to prevent complications. The flu incidence rate reached 92.8 diagnoses per 100,000 inhabitants in the last week of December, approaching the threshold for moderate transmission, which health officials anticipate will be crossed this week.

Historically, flu seasons tend to start earlier than this, with previous years reaching high transmission levels by now. However, this year’s flu season appears to be delayed. Last year at this time, primary care diagnostics for flu had already surpassed the threshold for high transmission, and in 2023, moderate transmission had been exceeded. Current underdiagnosis is thought to be linked to the festive holidays, and as normalcy resumes, particularly with the return to school, a clearer picture of the respiratory viruses’ impact in Catalonia will emerge.

The low vaccination rate against Covid, the lowest since the pandemic, coupled with a significant proportion of those over 60 remaining unvaccinated against the flu, contributes to concerns about a severe outbreak. Among seniors, flu vaccination coverage stands at 44.75%, down from 46.28% in 2023, 52.2% in 2022, and 56.2% in 2021. In response, health authorities have facilitated access to no appointment necessary vaccinations across the region.

Bringing good news, the transmission level of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) has shown a slight increase, signaling the end of this season’s peak. Currently, the distribution of viruses reveals that rhinovirus is most prevalent (33.3% of samples), followed by the flu (31.7%) and RSV (17%).

In a lighter note, Nayeli was the first Catalan of 2025, born at the Parc Taulí Hospital in Sabadell, Barcelona, at the stroke of midnight, seconds after the New Year’s chiming. Her mother, Juana, is a resident of Sabadell. Nayeli weighed 2.190 kilos and is in good health. Minutes later, Siena, another baby girl, was born at the Sant Joan de Déu Hospital in Barcelona, weighing 3.070 kilos.

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Health

Guanajuato Exceeds Target for HPV Vaccine Applications

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

Headline:
Guanajuato Surpasses Vaccination Targets Against HPV in Successful 2023 Campaign

In Guanajuato, the State Health Secretariat has reported an impressive milestone in its recent HPV vaccination campaign. A total of 50,170 doses have been administered this year, targeting girls between the ages of 11 to 16, as well as transgender and cisgender individuals living with HIV.

Subhead:
Parental Participation Implicated as Key Factor in Campaign Success

Body:

The HPV vaccination campaign, launched on September 2 and concluded on December 18, saw a significant increase in parental cooperation compared to previous years. In 2022, at least 25% of parents refused to vaccinate their daughters. However, this year, most jurisdictions not only met their targets but surpassed them, with some achieving up to 126% of their intended quota. The Metropolitan Jurisdictions VI and VII were close to meeting their goals by December 13 but did not complete the campaign.

Campaign Details and Target Groups:

  • Target Age Group: Girls in fifth grade of primary school and those aged 11 who are not enrolled in school.
  • Expansion of Eligibility: The campaign extended to include girls and adolescents aged 11 to 16 who had not been previously vaccinated, as well as transgender and cisgender individuals aged 11 to 49 living with HIV.

Key Players in Campaign Success:

Coordinator of Nursing at Jurisdiction 1, Luis Rodríguez Rangel, attributed the success to the outreach efforts made by various institutions such as the IMSS, ISSSTE, and ISAPEG, as well as the Secretariat of Health of Guanajuato. The campaign engaged with communities, sensitizing parents and caregivers about the importance of HPV vaccination.

The Impact of HPV Vaccination:

Catching HPV can lead to serious health issues, including cervical cancer, which is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women in Mexico. The HPV vaccine is a single-dose solution that protects against four major strains: HPV-6, HPV-11, HPV-16, and HPV-18.

Dr. Silvia Ibarra Sánchez, Director General of Promotion and Health Prevention, emphasized the importance of vaccinations and regular cervical cancer screenings to prevent HPV-related illnesses.

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Health

Vaccination Reaches 30% of Mallorca’s Livestock Against Bluetongue Disease

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

Title: Fighting Back Against Bluetongue: Mallorca Leads the Charge in Vaccinating Livestock

Mallorca, balearic islands, and the rest of Spain are grappling with their worst livestock crisis in recent times, courtesy of a Culicoides genus mosquito that transmits Bluetongue disease. This virus has been relentlessly attacking sheep and cattle, making vaccination the sole defense against it. In a robust response, Mallorca has already vaccinated 30% of its livestock, with tens of thousands more doses expected in the coming months.

"The vaccination pace is positive," assures Fernando Fernández, Director General of Agriculture, Livestock, and Rural Development. His team aims to protect 85% of the region’s livestock before April, when the transmitting mosquito’s new active period begins. This vaccination process will need to be repeated for three consecutive years to achieve the European Commission’s ‘zone free from Bluetongue’ status.

The initial 60,000 doses, received in November, targeted farms with declared outbreaks, prioritizing those with over 500 animals due to higher risk of disease propagation. This phase vaccinated 19% of the livestock, or 46,300 animals.

In early December, another 100,000 vials arrived. For sheep, 67,782 animals from 816 farms (27% of the sheep population) have been vaccinated. Mallorca reached 28%, Menorca 14%, and Ibiza 18.7%. For cattle, 1,303 animals have been vaccinated, with Mallorca accounting for 23% of its cattle population.

Fernández acknowledges the complexities of this mass vaccination effort, involving significant logistics and resources. However, he assures that vaccine supply will not be an issue, with the remaining 500,000 doses expected in February.

Bluetongue is a contagious disease affecting ruminants, previously well-controlled in Spain but now causing significant concern across Europe and Spain due to the increase in circulating serotypes – now 12, with four coexisting in Spain. Each vaccine is specific to a single serotype, complicating the response.

Spain’s unique approach to managing the disease has isolated it from other countries, with different strategies in place for neighboring France and Portugal,which have not mandated vaccination. This difference highlights the shared risk across borders.

Despite initial production gaps due to the emergence of serotypes 3 and 8, Spain’s two authorized vaccine producers are now fully focused on meeting local and European demands. With vaccinations underway and more doses on the way, Mallorca and Spain are determined to turn the tide against Bluetongue.

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Health

Michoacán’s Health Department to Continue COVID-19 Vaccination through December and January

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

Michoacán‘s Health Secretary Confirms Ongoing Covid-19 Vaccination Campaign

MORelia, Michoacán — The Michoacán Secretary of Health (SSM) has announced that the Covid-19 vaccination campaign will continue throughout December and January, with centers open across the state to administer the jab to individuals aged five and above.

The vaccination drive, which is seasonal and takes place annually during the winter months, will operate in all 364 health centers in Michoacán. Notably, the initiative will remain active on holidays such as Christmas, New Year’s Eve and Day, as well as weekends. This ensures constant access to the vaccine, maintaining biosecurity measures and reducing the risk of Covid-19 complications.

The vaccine in use is Abdala, spacious and effective in protecting against severe symptoms and saving lives. It requires only a single dose per year and can be received upon presenting a valid ID for adults, or a health record card for children, teens, and young adults.

"We urge the population to take advantage of these special hours and get vaccinated. The vaccine is safe, and it’s the best way to protect ourselves and our loved ones from the virus," said the SSM in a statement.

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Health

Maximizing Holidays: A Call to Complete Your Vaccination Schedule

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

Headline: Ensuring Kids’ Health: importance of free vaccination and updated programs

Subhead: vaccination programs and their benefits for children and adolescents.

Article:

Navigating through the realm of healthcare, there’s one universally agreed-upon measure that outlines the path to children’s optimal health and well-being – vaccination. Its significance lies not only in its role as a health guard but also as a fundamental human right, ensuring many children across the globe receive the best chance at a healthy life. "Providing vaccinations is the greatest gift we can give our children," asserts Coralia Vázquez, stressing the importance of overcoming hesitation and availing the opportunity.

As expanded vaccination programs continue to roll out, it’s pivotal to stay informed about who is eligible and where to go. In Paraguay, the list of those eligible for vaccinations includes children and adolescents aged between 10 and 14 without prior vaccination history, pregnant women from 20 weeks of gestation with no previous vaccination, healthcare workers aged up to 59 years, and adults aged between 18 and 59 as a replacement for the tetanus and diphtheria (TD) shots.

Moreover, it’s crucial to maintain the regular vaccination schedule for children starting from two months old. The IPS Ingavi healthcare establishment reported vaccinating a remarkable 42,296 individuals within their annual count. Their vaccination center is stationed at the entrance of the Policlínica, along Captain Rivas and Río Ypané in San Lorenzo city, open Monday through Friday, from 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Embracing and promoting vaccination programs is not just a communal responsibility, but a key to ensuring the health and safety of our kids. So, let’s revitalize our health awareness, break the myths, and ensure our children grow strong and healthy!

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Health

Aragón Nearing 75% Vaccination Target for Residents Over 80

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

Aragón Closes in on 75% Flu Vaccination Target for Over-80s as Cases Rise

The flu vaccination campaign in Aragón is proceeding smoothly, with the region nearing its 75% coverage goal among individuals aged 80 and above. This puts Aragón in a strong position as the flu season, which typically peaks in January, gets underway.

Aragón’s health department reports that six out of eight health sectors – Huesca, Calatayud, Teruel, Barbastro, Alcañiz, and Zaragoza III – have already met the 75% vaccination target for the elderly, with Huesca and Calatayud leading the pack at 78%.

Zaragoza I and II stand at 74% and 68% respectively, just shy of the target. The entire region is expected to reach its goal, given the remaining doses administered between early October and now.

However, vaccination rates among younger age groups remain lower. Only 43% of adults aged 60-79 and 36% of children aged 6 months to 5 years have been vaccinated. This is a common trend worldwide, ascertain groups may perceive less risk and thus, be less likely to get vaccinated.

In Aragón, vaccination remains open to all residents. Appointments can be made through the Salud Informa app and vaccinations are administered at local health centers. To accommodate busy schedules, health authorities have organized two no-appointment-necessary vaccination days, with more planned to boost coverage rates.

The flu season in Aragón is intensifying, with a 37-case per 100,000 population incidence rate, nearing the epidemic threshold of 58.2 cases. Officials anticipate the peak to occur during the first weeks of January.

In the battle against both the flu and COVID-19, Aragón’s vaccination campaign serves as a crucial frontline defense.

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Health

Expanding HPV Vaccination Coverage in the Canary Islands to Age 18

OR

Canary Islands Expands HPV Vaccination Eligibility to Include 18-Year-Olds

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

New Changes in HPV Vaccination Schedule: Now a Single Dose for Those Up to 18 Years

The General Directorate of Public Health of the Canary Health Service, attached to the Ministry of Health, has introduced changes to the HPV vaccine administration, expanding the vaccine offer with a single-dose schedule for men and women up to 18 years old. This move aligns with the recommendations of the World Health Organization (WHO) and aims to broaden population coverage and simplify vaccine schedules.

In line with the latest evidence and the objective of enhancing population protection, the Ministry of Health has revised its HPV vaccination program. This has led to the introduction of a single-dose schedule for girls and boys aged 12, as well as the extension of this single-dose vaccine recommendation to other population groups under 26, such as men who have sex with men and individuals in prostitution. However, for those aged between 26 and 45, the recommendation remains two doses.

The single-dose schedule is shown to be effective, and its adoption is based on growing scientific evidence. Additionally, the new guidelines recommend vaccinating children and adolescents at 12 years old with a single dose, and to capture unvaccinated men and women up to 18 years of age.

For individuals aged 12 to 18, the vaccine against meningococcal tetravalent (MenACWY) is also recommended for those who haven’t already received it during adolescence. In the case of men, this includes those born after December 15, 2005, until the cohort born in 2011 reaches 18 years old, with a single-dose schedule.

Vaccination for People at Risk

Furthermore, vaccination is recommended for unvaccinated individuals with specific risk factors up to 45 years old (inclusive), with a single-dose schedule up to 25 years old, and a two-dose schedule (spaced at least six months apart) from 26 years old, for men who have sex with men and individuals in prostitution.

For those aged up to 45 who are not previously vaccinated against HPV and are immune-compromised, the indications are subject to the criteria of their referring hospital doctor.

However, three-dose schedules are recommended, regardless of the starting age, for individuals belonging to high-risk groups, such as those with the WHIM syndrome, HIV infection, solid organ or hematopoietic stem cell transplant, inflammatory bowel disease, those on heavy immunosuppressive therapy, or those with recurrent respiratory papillomatosis.

In addition, vaccination is also recommended in a three-dose schedule for women of any age who have undergone any escisional treatment for high-grade intraepithelial lesions (CIN2+) or above, and men who have sex with men with anal dysplasia due to HPV. Preferably, vaccination should occur before the treatment for the lesion, or as soon as possible afterward if this isn’t possible.

Vaccination as a Preventive Measure

HPV infection is a viral infection that can cause skin or mucous membrane lesions, such as warts. There are over 100 varieties of HPV, with most infections not leading to cancer. However, some high-risk types of HPV can cause cancer of the cervix, anus, penis, vagina, vulva, and oropharynx. Vaccination protects against the HPV strains most likely to cause these cancers.

Therefore, staying up-to-date with the latest vaccine recommendations, particularly for those in high-risk categories, is essential for preventing HPV-related diseases. The new single-dose schedule could help improve vaccination rates among eligible age groups, thereby enhancing overall population protection.

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Health

Rioja’s 2024 dengue campaign: A success story

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

Title: La Rioja‘s Triumph Against Dengue: A Beacon of Hope in Argentina’s 2024 Health Crisis

In the tumultuous health landscape of 2024, Argentina was gripped by a worrying epidemic: dengue fever, especially virulent in the northern region. Despite budget cuts due to national government’s decision, headed by President Javier Milei, the province of La Rioja emerged as a shining example of resilience and proactive governance in battling the disease.

The Fight Against Aedes Aegypti

La Rioja’s administration, led by Governor Ricardo Quintela, launched an arduous campaign against the dagger-like Aedes Aegypti mosquito, the vector behind dengue’s spread. In April, as cases peaked, Quintela announced a pivotal move: purchasing 10,000 vaccines for young adults aged 16 to 20, the demographic most at risk. This bold step was paired with plans to distribute large quantities of repellent to vulnerable sectors and high-risk zones. "We’ve acquired repellents and 10,000 vaccines for this vulnerable age group," explained Quintela in an interview with El Destape 1070.

Manzanas Saludables: A Multi-Pronged Approach

Quintela also lauded the province’s Manzanas Saludables program, which dispatched teams to visit neighborhoods, identifying dengue cases, and raising awareness about preventive measures. "We’re encouraging people to clean up, and we’re running massive awareness campaigns nationwide," he added.

Months later, Quintela inaugurated the official dengue vaccination campaign, targeting young adults aged 16 to 20 with 10,000 doses of the QDENGA vaccine, procured at a cost of $300,000. "It was a massive economic effort," Quintela stated on social media, "But it’s crucial to protect our young from this disease that’s long plagued our population."

In November, La Rioja’s health secretary announced the commencement of second dose vaccinations. To be eligible, three months must have passed since the first dose. The age range for vaccination expanded to 15-25 years, reflecting the province’s commitment to protecting its youth.

Manzanas Saludables: A Proactive Prevention Strategy

The Manzanas Saludables program went beyond vaccination, conducting year-round cleanup and ‘descacharreo’ (junk removal) operations, particularly during summer. Key preventive measures, such as eliminating water-holding containers, maintaining cleanliness, and ensuring proper water management, were emphasized. Residents could also report potential mosquito breeding sites via a dedicated form, complete with photo and location options.

La Rioja’s proactive stance against dengue serves as an inspiration for other provinces and a testament to how steadfast governance and public engagement can combat dire health challenges. As Argentina braces for future health crises, it would be wise to look to La Rioja’s triumph as a beacon of hope and resilience.

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