Balearic Islands extends Vaccine Contracts for Pneumococcal and Herpes Zoster
Table of Contents
PALMA, Sept. 21 (AP) — The Balearic islands government has approved a substantial investment to expand its vaccination programs against pneumococcal and herpes zoster infections, a move hailed as a significant step forward in proactive public health.
Government spokesperson Antoni Costa announced the decision following a Consell de Govern meeting. The extension of existing contracts ensures continued access to these crucial vaccines for the islands’ residents.
One contract extension covers the supply of a 20-serotype pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (VPC20) through 2027. This will cost €4.9 million, allocated as follows: €1.96 million in 2025, €2.45 million in 2026,and €490,000 in 2027. Vaccination is a basic tool to prevent invading disease by pneumococcus,
officials stated.The VPC20 vaccine,authorized in 2022,offers broader protection than its predecessor,the VPP23,boasting substantially improved…protection,
according to government sources.
pneumococcal pneumonia and invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) pose a significant health risk, particularly for those with pre-existing conditions and older individuals.In Spain, the National Epidemiological Surveillance Network (RENAVE) reports 3,000 to 4,000 cases annually, primarily affecting children under five.
The second contract extension concerns the herpes zoster vaccine. This agreement, valued at €4.8 million, will run from May 1, 2024, to April 30, 2026. The herpes zoster vaccine was added to the official vaccination calendar on March 25, 2021, following recommendations from the Public Health Commission. Initially targeting individuals 65 and older,the programme includes a catch-up provision for older populations.
The decision was made by the loading of the disease, the severity of the affectation for people with high risk and the characteristics of the vaccines available in terms of efficiency and safety.
The vaccination plan prioritizes high-risk individuals before expanding to the general population aged 65 and older, with a catch-up program extending to age 80. Herpes zoster, caused by the varicella-zoster virus, can lead to postherpetic neuralgia, a debilitating condition characterized by prolonged and intense pain.
These substantial investments underscore the Balearic Islands’ commitment to public health and proactive disease prevention through vaccination. The proactive approach taken by the Balearic Islands government demonstrates a clear understanding of the long-term benefits of preventative healthcare and its impact on both individual well-being and the overall healthcare system.
Transforming Public Health: Balearic Islands’ Strategic Vaccine Expansion Offers Lifesaving Protection
In a world where health landscapes are constantly evolving, the Balearic Islands are making groundbreaking strides in preventive healthcare. By extending contracts for pneumococcal and herpes zoster vaccines, they underline a robust commitment to safeguarding their residents. But what drives this decision,and why are these vaccines so crucial?
Senior Editor:
In a proactive move that signifies more than just healthcare expenditure,the Balearic Islands have recently extended vaccine contracts to combat pneumococcal and herpes zoster infections. As an expert in public health, could you explain why these vaccines are so notable for the islands’ residents