The MINSAL strategy focuses on the prevention of the disease with greater emphasis on the close contacts of the person infected by the virus.
More than 100 people from different parts of the region have been inoculated against monkeypox at the main public health center in O’Higgins. This was stated by Lisete Sotelo, the nurse in charge of the Vaccination Center of the Libertador Bernardo O’Higgins Regional Hospital (HRLBO), where the process has been carried out since the end of November 2022, which should be noted is carried out confidentially and voluntarily.
“The vaccine, which is carried out in two doses spaced 28 days apart, aims to prevent and attenuate the symptoms of the disease in people who have been exposed to the virus, or who could be exposed due to their lifestyle. The idea is to avoid contagion and reduce the severity or mortality implied by the infection”, expressed the nurse from the Regional Hospital, adding, “it is free, its procedure is safe and brief, it keeps the total privacy of the patient, who at the time of inoculation He also receives personalized counseling for the purpose of resolving doubts and informing later details”.
From the above, Lisete Sotelo emphasizes, “sometimes symptoms such as fever or mild muscle discomfort manifest, the same thing that happens with other vaccines but that it is important to report. Likewise, a skin reaction occurs at the puncture site, a papule similar to a mosquito bite that evolves and then disappears, but it must be protected while it is present. On the other hand, the professional reinforces, “the vaccine against this virus is intradermal, in the forearm and for those who develop keloids, it can be done intramuscularly. Beyond that, getting vaccinated does not require special care before or after.”
Regarding those who make up the target group, Sotelo indicated, “they are those who have been close contacts of the person infected with monkeypox, immunosuppressed people, living with HIV or with immunodeficiency between the ages of 18 and 44, sex workers, PrEP users, those who engage in risky sexual behavior, or who have had a sexually transmitted infection in the last month (prior to vaccination)”.
The importance of getting vaccinated
The professional from the Regional Hospital emphasizes the importance of being inoculated, since it provides effective protection against the virus, which, according to the Ministry of Health in January of this year, exceeded 1,400 infected in Chile. “After receiving the two doses that are required, immunity can be acquired. However, there is a minimal possibility of contracting the disease if you have contact with the infected person, although its contagion will result in a very attenuated picture. Even so, the call that we from the HRLBO make is to prevent and approach our Vaccination Center if you are within the priority risk group without fear, scheduling an appointment by phone, through your Cesfam, in person or spontaneously. We are here from Monday to Friday, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and then from 2:00 p.m. to 4:15 p.m.,” concluded Lisete Sotelo.
