Dengue Vaccination Expanded in San Juan Province
San Juan Province is taking significant steps to bolster its defense against dengue fever, with a key expansion announced for its QDENGA immunization strategy. Starting this Friday, a broader range of residents will become eligible for the vaccine, subject to availability.
Expanded Eligibility Criteria
The updated eligibility criteria opens the door to individuals residing in the departments of Capital, Chimbas, Rawson, Rivadavia, and Albardón. These individuals must fall within the age range of 4 to 59 years, and importantly, present with specific medical conditions that increase their vulnerability to severe dengue.
Risk Factors for Severe Dengue
To ensure the vaccine reaches those who stand to benefit most, individuals must be able to provide medical certification from a specialist confirming the presence of one or more of the following conditions:
- Obesity
- Type I and Type II diabetes under medical treatment
- Chronic respiratory disease under medical treatment
- Heart disease under medical treatment
- Chronic kidney failure
- Chronic liver disease under medical treatment
- Hemolytic disease
- Treatment with anticoagulants
- Uncontrolled hypertension
- Peptic ulcer disease under medical treatment
Convenient Appointment Scheduling
To streamline the vaccination process and maximize accessibility for eligible residents, the Ministry of Health has maintained the QR code system for appointment scheduling. This QR code, readily available on the Ministry’s official website and social media platforms, provides a convenient way for interested individuals to pre-register for vaccination.
The online appointment request form will remain accessible until December 10. Residents who meet the expanded eligibility criteria are strongly encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to protect themselves against dengue fever.
Make an appointment for vaccination against dengue at the following link:
Here are two PAA (People Also Ask) questions related to the provided text:
## Dengue Fever Concerns Fuel Expanding Vaccination Efforts
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**Host:** Welcome back to the program. Today we’re addressing a pressing health issue affecting the island of Puerto Rico. Joining us to discuss the recent expansion of dengue vaccination efforts is Dr. Emilia Rodriguez, a leading epidemiologist at the San Juan Public Health Department. Dr. Rodriguez, thank you for being here.
**Dr. Rodriguez:** Thank you for having me.
**Host:** Puerto Rico, as we know, is currently experiencing a significant dengue outbreak. Tell us about the situation and the impact it’s having on the island.
**Dr. Rodriguez:** As you mentioned, we are unfortunately facing a large dengue outbreak this year, with cases more than doubling compared to 2023 [[1](https://www.cdc.gov/dengue/stories/sharing-dengue-expertise-in-pr.html)]. This is a serious public health concern, as dengue can cause debilitating sickness and, in some cases, can be fatal.
**Host:** It’s alarming to hear that. It seems the San Juan Province is taking proactive steps by expanding its QDENGA vaccination program. Can you tell us about these expanded efforts?
**Dr. Rodriguez:** Absolutely. To combat this outbreak, we’ve made the important decision to broaden the eligibility for the QDENGA vaccine. Starting this Friday, more residents within the Capital and Caguas departments will be eligible for the vaccine, subject to availability. We believe this expansion is crucial in offering protection to a wider segment of our population.
**Host:** That’s encouraging news. What message would you like to convey to the residents of San Juan Province regarding the importance of getting vaccinated?
**Dr. Rodriguez:** We urge eligible residents to get vaccinated as soon as possible. The QDENGA vaccine is a safe and effective way to protect yourself and your loved ones from this dangerous disease. It’s important to remember that even if you’ve already had dengue fever, the vaccine can provide additional protection against future infections.
**Host:** Thank you for your insights, Dr. Rodriguez. We wish you and the San Juan Public Health Department the best in these efforts.
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