Argentine City Pioneers Dengue Vaccination program for Children
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in a significant public health initiative, the city of Villa María, Argentina, is making strides in combating dengue fever through a proactive vaccination program targeting children. This innovative approach, focusing on a specific age group and leveraging existing health infrastructure, offers valuable insights for global dengue prevention strategies.
The program prioritizes children aged 4 to 14 who have previously contracted dengue and required hospitalization. These children, registered within the Argentine Health Information system (SISA), are receiving the second dose of the Qdenga vaccine, a live-attenuated vaccine approved by ANMAT (the Argentine National Governance of Medicines, Food and Medical Technology). This vaccine is designed to trigger an immune response against all four dengue virus serotypes, aligning with World Health Organization recommendations.
Dramatic Increase in Childhood Vaccination Rates
Beyond the targeted dengue vaccination, Villa María’s complete approach has yielded remarkable results in overall childhood immunization rates. A robust community outreach program, involving home visits and strategically placed vaccination centers, has dramatically increased vaccination coverage for the national immunization schedule. The city has seen a remarkable increase in vaccination rates for children under one year old, rising from 51% in March to a current 96%.
“Thanks to the commitment of doctors and Public Assistance workers who carried out territorial work together with other neighborhood institutions, it was possible to increase the percentage of vaccinated patients, which was low in the middle of the year, and managed to reach 95% of the population with which we have been working,”
highlighted Health Secretary César Rivera, emphasizing the collaborative effort between healthcare professionals and the community.
Understanding the Qdenga Vaccine
the Qdenga vaccine’s mechanism involves the introduction of live, attenuated dengue viruses. These viruses replicate locally, stimulating both humoral and cellular immune responses to protect against all four dengue serotypes. The city’s use of this WHO-recommended vaccine underscores its commitment to evidence-based public health practices.
“All children identified in this condition were inoculated and, when 90 days have passed as the first dose, the scheme will be completed with the second application,”
Secretary Rivera explained, outlining the two-dose vaccination schedule. the program specifically targets children who lack social work coverage,ensuring equitable access to this crucial preventative measure.
Villa María’s success story highlights the potential of targeted vaccination programs and community engagement in combating dengue fever.as dengue continues to pose a global health threat, the lessons learned from this initiative could inform similar efforts in other regions facing similar challenges, especially in areas with limited access to healthcare.
Argentine City Takes Innovative Approach to Dengue Prevention
In a groundbreaking effort to combat dengue fever, the city of Villa María, Argentina, is implementing a targeted vaccination program focused on children. This initiative, which leverages the Qdenga vaccine and community outreach, highlights a promising strategy for addressing this mosquito-borne disease.We spoke with Dr. Gabriela Ramirez, a dengue specialist and public health researcher, to learn more about this innovative approach.
World Today News: Dr. Ramirez, Villa María’s approach to dengue vaccination seems unique. can you elaborate on the program and its goals?
Dr. Ramirez: absolutely. Villa María is focusing on children aged 4 to 14 who have previously been hospitalized for dengue. They are receiving the Qdenga vaccine, a WHO-recommended, live-attenuated vaccine that protects against all four dengue serotypes.
World Today News: Why target this specific age group?
Dr.Ramirez: This age group is notably vulnerable to severe dengue complications. By vaccinating those who have already experienced the illness, the program aims to prevent future hospitalizations and serious health consequences.
World Today News: How have the vaccination efforts progressed so far?
Dr. Ramirez: Remarkably well. Villa María has seen a significant increase in vaccination rates not only for dengue but also for other childhood immunizations. They’ve successfully integrated this program into their existing health infrastructure and leveraged community outreach to reach even the most vulnerable children.
World today News: What makes this program particularly noteworthy?
Dr.Ramirez: Several factors stand out.First,the targeted approach ensures resources are used efficiently. Second,the focus on children who lack social work coverage addresses health disparities. the program demonstrates the power of community engagement in public health.
World Today News: This approach seems promising,but what lessons can other regions facing dengue outbreaks learn from Villa María’s experiance?
Dr. Ramirez: Villa María’s success shows that targeted vaccination programs using effective vaccines, combined with strong community engagement, can make a real difference in dengue prevention. This model could be adapted to other areas struggling with dengue, particularly those with limited access to healthcare.
World Today News: Thank you, Dr. Ramirez, for sharing your insights on this important public health initiative.
