Flu vaccination begins: “We must ensure that all risk groups achieve 75% immunity” | Aragon

With an eye to people over 85 years of age and in risk groupsAs caregivers and medical personnel, a flu vaccination campaign has begun in Aragon. The goal is to ensure that the entire population at risk reach 75% vaccinated. The Ministry of Health remembers that every year between 1500 and 3000 people die due to influenza and that 90% are elderly. In addition, this winter authorities warn that the season may high incidence peaks occur in November and December.

This was recognized by Nuria Gayan, director general of public health, in the program “Buenos Díaz” on Radio Aragon, after assessing data indicating that “difficult season“We are already seeing an upward curve in the incidence of acute respiratory infections, which makes us think that there will be important peaks before Christmas,” he said.

Another indicator comes from the southern hemisphere, where spring awaits them after a difficult winter. “There was a flu virus incidence is significantly higher than the average reported over the past five years in Australia“Warned Gayan, who recalled that “vaccination” of the compound that includes the coronavirus is also important because “the current strain has little in common with the one observed during the pandemic.”

The Ministry of Health regrets that among risk groups, only the group over 85 years of age corresponds to 75% coverage. Gayan insisted on remembering important sectors such as medicine and security forces the importance of vaccination, as currently “only 50% get it.” Last year, 318,000 vaccines were administered throughout Aragon.

Pilot testing in schools

More than 1,500 three- and four-year-old schoolchildren will be able to get vaccinated anti-flu campaign in 29 Aragonese schools as part of a pilot test that, according to Gayan, “has worked very well in other territories.” For babies, this will be done through a system that does not involve a puncture, since it will be administered through the nose.

Health emphasizes that This age group has a high rate of hospitalizations. due to this seasonal pathology, up to 70% of cases last year and they are “the ones who convey it the most.”