On October 17, the seasonal flu vaccination campaign begins in The community of Madrid, which will begin with the administration of the first doses to the most vulnerable population, in this case those over the age of 65. The regional executive has already announced the acquisition of over 1.6 million vaccines against influenza to cover the needs of the population at risk during this period.
Efforts to immunize the population at risk against influenza are essential, as it is a viral disease that can cause a severe acute infection in the respiratory system. Although it can affect people of any age, those who have a higher risk of hospitalization and complications are the elderly, pregnant women, patients with other chronic conditions or people who are immunosuppressed.
It starts with people over 65
The first population group to receive the flu vaccine, starting October 17, will be people over the age of 65. Subsequently, it will begin to be administered to people between 60 and 64 years of age, as well as to groups at risk: pregnant women, the chronically ill, health and social health workers, caregivers and staff of essential services for the community.
The Ministry of Health of the Community of Madrid Recommend the flu vaccine from the age of 60, following the recommendations of the region’s Vaccine Advisory Expert Committee, while it is indicated for minors who are in risk groups.
The objective of the Directorate General of Public Health is to reach 75% of people over 65 and healthcare professionals and 60% of pregnant women.
Why is vaccination necessary?
People who are part of one of the risk groups should be vaccinated against this virus, as it is constantly evolving. That’s why every year a new vaccination campaign is carried out and the composition of the vaccine is modified“in order to include the 3 subtypes that guarantee protection against the strains prevalent in each season”, indicate by the manager.
The administration of this vaccine is free and takes place in health centers and clinics of the Community of Madrid, in nursing homes, municipal centers and other vaccination centers for personnel at risk.
Likewise, vaccination is particularly important as it coincides with the circulation of the covid virus, since the symptoms are similar. The flu is characterized by the onset of fever, generalized muscle aches, headache, sore throat, cough, runny nose, sneezing, and eye irritation.
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