Successful Influenza and HPV Vaccination Campaign in Santa Cruz Educational Units

Vaccination Campaign in Santa Cruz Educational Units Progresses Successfully

SANTA CRUZ DE LA SIERRA, June 22, 2023.- The vaccination campaign against influenza in educational units of Santa Cruz is making significant progress. Health authorities in the region have reported that the vaccine against the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is also being administered simultaneously, with parents showing interest in immunizing their children.

Boris Chang, the person in charge of the Expanded Immunization Program (PAI) in Santa Cruz, explained that the vaccination campaign against influenza began in educational units in the department of Santa Cruz in mid-May. He emphasized the good and fluid coordination with the educational system authorities to vaccinate as many children and adolescents as possible. “Vaccines are the safest method in the world to protect children and adolescents from preventable diseases,” said Chang.

The influenza vaccine is included in the regular vaccination schedule and is administered daily to boys and girls between 6 and 11 months of age. During the winter period, the vaccine is extended to schoolchildren aged 5 to 12, adults over 60, pregnant women, individuals with underlying diseases, and healthcare personnel. Additionally, in the current administration, the HPV vaccine is administered as a single dose to girls between 10 and 12 years old.

Chang highlighted the process of moving vaccination brigades to educational units. This is done after coordination with school directors and working with parents to schedule visits with the vaccination team. “We carry out three processes: communication, training, and sensitization to parents, and then the brigades go to the educational unit to carry out the vaccination,” he explained.

The brigades responsible for administering vaccines in Santa Cruz’s educational units use vaccine holders donated by the Government of Japan, through UNICEF, to the Ministry of Health and Sports. These vaccine holders have been distributed across the nine departments of the country. Chang emphasized the importance of state-of-the-art cold chain equipment to maintain the efficacy and composition of vaccines, especially in tropical climates like Santa Cruz.

The successful progress of the vaccination campaign in Santa Cruz’s educational units is a testament to the commitment of health authorities, educational system authorities, and parents to protect children and adolescents from preventable diseases. The ongoing efforts to provide vaccinations against influenza and HPV will contribute to a healthier and safer community in Santa Cruz.

How have health authorities addressed vaccine hesitancy among parents during the campaign

Ies, which has allowed for a smooth implementation of the campaign.

According to Chang, the goal of the campaign is to reach as many children as possible, ensuring their protection against influenza and the HPV. He mentioned that both vaccines are crucial in preventing diseases and improving the overall health of the population.

The response from parents has been positive, with many expressing interest in getting their children vaccinated. Chang attributes this to the educational efforts carried out prior to the campaign, which emphasized the importance and safety of vaccines.

The vaccination campaign is being conducted in all educational units, including public and private schools, as well as colleges and universities. Health authorities have set up vaccination centers within these establishments, making it convenient and accessible for students to receive the vaccines.

One of the challenges faced during the campaign is vaccine hesitancy among some parents. Health authorities have been actively addressing this issue by providing accurate information about the vaccines and debunking myths and misconceptions surrounding them.

To ensure the success of the campaign, health authorities have also been working closely with teachers and school staff. They have been trained to understand the importance of vaccines and to address any concerns or doubts raised by parents.

In addition to the vaccination campaign in educational units, health authorities have also been organizing vaccination drives in other parts of the community. These drives aim to reach those who are unable to access vaccines through educational units, such as adults and the elderly.

The progress of the vaccination campaign in Santa Cruz educational units is a testament to the effectiveness of coordinated efforts between health authorities and the educational system. By prioritizing the health of students and the community, Santa Cruz is taking important steps towards preventing the spread of diseases and improving overall well-being.