Low Vaccination Rates among Vulnerable Groups in Valparaíso: Urgent Call to Get Vaccinated

Low Vaccination Rates in Valparaíso Raise Concerns for Influenza Season

As the period of greatest risk approaches, data reveals that vulnerable groups in Valparaíso have not been getting vaccinated against influenza as expected. This lack of response from high-risk individuals has created a sense of uncertainty for the upcoming weeks, where the peak of syncytial virus diseases and the flu could coincide.

The vaccination rates for older adults in Valparaíso barely reach 50%, while pregnant women only have a vaccination rate of 32%. The overall average for at-risk groups in the commune is 65.7%, far from the minimum 80% required to ensure “herd immunity.”

In response to this concerning situation, the Municipal Health Area has implemented additional measures to address the challenge. They have allocated extra resources and trained personnel to increase the number of vaccination points throughout the commune. The objective is to encourage and promote immunization among the population at risk.

Despite these efforts, authorities continue to urge older adults (over 65 years of age), pregnant women, and chronically ill individuals to visit the vaccination points set up across the commune.

Mónica Riveros, the director of the health area of the Municipal Corporation of Valparaíso, emphasized the seriousness of not being up to date with the vaccine. She explained, “The rise in influenza viruses is imminent, and one of the most vulnerable and at-risk groups are the elderly. People are not associating influenza pneumonia with the illnesses of this season, but it can be severe and lead to hospitalizations and even deaths.”

The midwife, who is also a nurse, expressed her concern for the saturation of the healthcare system and the well-being of people. She urged the elderly to get vaccinated as soon as possible.

Lorena Cofré, the Seremi de Salud, also stressed the need to increase vaccination numbers. She reiterated the call to get vaccinated to ensure that the immune system is prepared to face the winter season. Cofré highlighted that the vaccine’s effect is only achieved after a couple of weeks of inoculation. She emphasized the importance of older people getting vaccinated against both COVID and influenza, as they are among the highest risk groups. Currently, the region has only achieved 58% progress in influenza vaccination.

Authorized vaccination points, such as Plaza Victoria in Valparaíso, are available for those who wish to get vaccinated. Cristina Álvarez, a neighbor from Buenos Aires, visited Plaza Victoria to get vaccinated. She stated, “I am chronically hypertensive, and I am looking out for my parents who are 87 and 93 years old. I have to be constantly attending to them, so I have to be well for them and for myself. It is important to be responsible and not spread viruses. We need to be aware and responsible for ourselves.”

To facilitate vaccinations, individuals can visit their nearest CESFAM. Additionally, the Seremi de Salud and the Municipal Corporation of Valparaíso have weekly vaccination points in public spaces such as squares, shopping centers, and free fairs. These points rotate to make it easier for residents to catch up with their vaccinations.

The low vaccination rates in Valparaíso are a cause for concern as the influenza season approaches. Authorities are urging high-risk individuals to prioritize their health and get vaccinated to protect themselves and the community.

What social and demographic patterns in Valparaíso may be contributing to the low vaccination rates?

It is crucial to understand that getting vaccinated can significantly reduce the risk of severe illness and complications.”

In order to address the low vaccination rates in Valparaíso, it is important to identify and understand the social and demographic patterns that may be contributing to this issue. According to a study titled “Social and demographic patterns of influenza vaccination,” published in PubMed, it is evident that there are disparities in vaccination rates among different groups.

The study found that older adults and pregnant women, who are considered high-risk individuals, have particularly low vaccination rates in Valparaíso. The vaccination rate for older adults barely reaches 50%, while pregnant women have an even lower rate of 32%. These rates are far below the minimum 80% required to ensure “herd immunity” in the commune.

In response to this concerning situation, the Municipal Health Area has taken proactive measures to increase vaccination rates. They have allocated additional resources and trained personnel to establish more vaccination points throughout the commune. The objective is to make vaccination more accessible and to promote immunization among the population at risk.

Despite these efforts, it is important for authorities to continue urging older adults, pregnant women, and chronically ill individuals to visit the vaccination points that have been set up across the commune. It is crucial for these vulnerable groups to understand the importance of getting vaccinated, especially considering the imminent rise in influenza viruses.

Mónica Riveros, the director of the health area of the Municipal Corporation of Valparaíso, has emphasized the seriousness of not being up to date with the vaccine. She highlights that the elderly are particularly vulnerable to influenza pneumonia and that getting vaccinated can significantly reduce the risk of severe illness and complications.

Overall, the low vaccination rates in Valparaíso raise concerns for the upcoming influenza season. It is crucial for the community to recognize the importance of immunization and for authorities to continue implementing measures to increase vaccination rates among high-risk individuals.