Importance of Influenza and Pneumococcal Vaccination in Winter

With the arrival of winter, the southern and eastern regions of the country are experiencing low temperatures, leading to an increase in acute respiratory infections (ARI). In response to this, the Ministry of Health (Minsa) is reminding the public, especially children under 5 years old, pregnant women, individuals with comorbidities, and those over 60 years old, to protect themselves against influenza and pneumococcus.

According to the Technical Standard of the National Vaccination Scheme of Minsa, infants receive their first dose of the influenza vaccine at 6 months old and the second dose at 7 months. From the age of one, they should receive an annual dose until they reach 5 years old.

Pregnant women can receive the vaccine at any stage of their pregnancy, while individuals with comorbidities and adults over 60 years old require an annual dose, preferably between May and June.

Regarding the pneumococcal vaccine, infants receive their first dose at 2 months old, the second dose at 4 months, and the third dose at 1 year old. Children between the ages of 2 and 4 who have not received any pneumococcal vaccine should receive a one-time dose.

Individuals between the ages of 5 and 60 who have not received any dose and suffer from chronic lung disease, kidney disease, heart disease, diabetes, HIV infection, Down syndrome, neoplasia, or other comorbidities should receive the vaccine once in their lifetime. Additionally, individuals over 60 years old and healthcare personnel also require a dose.

According to the Minsa Immunization Directorate, as of 2023, 24.4% of children under 5 years old have been vaccinated against influenza and 60.3% against pneumococcus. Among those over 60 years old, 31.8% have been protected against influenza and 16.8% against pneumococcus.

María Elena Martínez Barrera, the executive director of Immunizations, emphasized that influenza vaccines have already been distributed nationwide. Health personnel are intensifying the vaccination campaign, particularly in the highlands and jungle regions where frost and cold weather are prevalent.

“The person should go to the nearest health facility, and the health personnel will verify which vaccine is missing, and they will be immunized accordingly,” said Martínez.

It is crucial for the public to prioritize their health and get vaccinated against influenza and pneumococcus to prevent the spread of respiratory infections during the winter season.

Who are the target populations for receiving the pneumococcal and influenza vaccines according to the Ministry of Health

, with a second dose given one month later. Children under 5 years old who have not received the vaccine before should also receive two doses, one month apart. Pregnant women and individuals with comorbidities should also receive the influenza vaccine.

In addition to the influenza vaccine, the Ministry of Health recommends the pneumococcal vaccine for children under 5 years old, individuals over 60 years old, and those with comorbidities. The pneumococcal vaccine is given in two doses, with a recommended interval of 2 months.

The Ministry of Health emphasizes the importance of these vaccinations, as influenza and pneumococcal infections can lead to serious complications, particularly in vulnerable populations. These infections are more common during the winter months, when people spend more time indoors and in close proximity to others.

In addition to getting vaccinated, the Ministry of Health advises the public to practice good hygiene habits to prevent the spread of respiratory infections. This includes covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, washing hands frequently with soap and water, and avoiding close contact with individuals who are sick.

It is important for individuals to take proactive measures to protect themselves and their loved ones from respiratory infections, particularly during the winter season. By getting vaccinated and practicing good hygiene habits, the risk of infection can be significantly reduced. The Ministry of Health remains committed to providing access to vaccinations and promoting public health initiatives to safeguard the well-being of the population.