The new program provides for the systematic administration of vaccines from the prenatal period to the population over the age of 60 and incorporates new indications to increase the protection of citizens against various diseases.
Therefore, immunization against meningococcus B will start in January for babies born after November 1, 2022 and is offered in a three-dose schedule: at 2, 4 and 12 months of age. It will also continue to be done with people who are in risk groups. This process can help protect against diseases caused by this bacteria, including meningococcal meningitis type B.
Similarly, starting next year, 12-year-old males, i.e. children born in 2011, will begin to be vaccinated against human papillomavirus (HPV) and with a schedule of two doses separated by at least six months. To date, it has been done with 12-year-old girls and people included in risk groups. With the new indication, the prevention of HPV-related infections and diseases is enhanced in both sexes.
HPV is a sexually transmitted infection that can cause serious illnesses in women, such as cervical cancer, but it also causes injuries in men, who also act as transmitters. Among other pathologies, it can generate genital warts, anal cancer, neck or mouth. Immunization is most effective before sexual intercourse begins, so it is recommended at an early age.
Finally, the Community of Madrid’s Lifetime Vaccination Calendar extends shingles prevention to people between the ages of 75 and 80. Meanwhile, the indication for people aged 65 and over 18 with certain risk conditions continues, a recommendation that the Ministry of Health implemented earlier this year.
Shingles is a disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus. Once the childhood infection has passed, it can remain confined and dormant for decades after it reactivates due to advanced age or low defenses. It manifests itself as a rash with similar characteristics to chickenpox, which can be extremely painful.
Get vaccinated for life
The General Directorate of Public Health of the Community of Madrid indicates that vaccination is important throughout life. It begins in childhood and adolescence and requires continuity into adulthood to strengthen immunity and achieve greater impact in controlling preventable disease.
It also ensures adequate lifelong protection, in turn contributing to healthy ageing.
