With winter fast approaching, Paraguay is experiencing a severe slump in its influenza vaccination rate. Out of the 1.5 million vaccine doses introduced so far, just over half, or 950,000 doses, have been administered. What's more concerning is that the vaccination rate for high-risk groups, including children and the elderly, stands at only 20%, far below the target of 60%. This means approximately 36% of the total vaccine stock, or 550,000 doses, still remain unused.
Luis Cusirat, director of the Expanded Program on Immunization (PAI), explained the situation in an interview with Radio Monumental 1080 AM, stating, "Children and the elderly are particularly concerning as they often cannot visit vaccination centers without the help of a parent or guardian." He also added that there are significant regional disparities in vaccination rates. While some northern regions like Concepción show high vaccination rates of 50%, the metropolitan areas of Central Department and Asunción City still record low rates.
Vaccination Rate Slightly Increases After Tragic Deaths
Amidst this sluggish progress, the deaths of two brothers in Itapúa Department served as a wake-up call for citizens. The 6-year-old and 12-year-old brothers were hospitalized in critical condition after being diagnosed with influenza and ultimately succumbed to the illness. It was reported that the brothers had not been vaccinated.
Director Cusirat noted that after this tragic incident, more than 5,000 people visited medical facilities for vaccination over the weekend, an unprecedented surge in vaccination rates. This is interpreted as a result of increased public awareness regarding the dangers of influenza.
Health Authorities Issue Epidemiological Alert and Urge Vaccination
Previously, the Paraguayan Ministry of Health had issued an epidemiological alert due to an increase in hospitalizations caused by respiratory viruses, especially influenza. This measure aimed to warn about the influenza epidemic and emphasize the importance of vaccination.
Over 1,400 vaccination centers are operating across Paraguay, and some hospitals are even conducting vaccinations on Mondays, a public holiday, to improve public accessibility. Health authorities plan to continue strengthening their promotional and encouragement efforts to quickly utilize the remaining 550,000 vaccine doses and boost vaccination rates among vulnerable groups.
Experts Urge Active Vaccination for Herd Immunity
Medical experts emphasize that influenza is not just a common cold but a disease that can cause serious complications such as pneumonia, making prevention paramount. They unanimously stress that high-risk groups, including immunocompromised children and the elderly, as well as those with chronic diseases, must get vaccinated to protect their individual health and contribute to forming herd immunity for the entire community. Active public participation in influenza vaccination is crucial as Paraguay prepares for the winter flu season.
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