Dengue Vaccines Not Yet Available in Córdoba Pharmacies

Pharmacy’s Role in Argentina‘s Vaccine Distribution: An Interview with Mariano Rosas

Mariano Rosas, head of the College of Pharmacists of Córdoba, Río Cuarto delegation, sheds light on the current state of vaccine distribution in Argentina. “At the moment, the State is in charge of vaccination priority, and there’s no authorization for pharmacies,” Rosas explains.Argentina’s immunization strategy currently focuses on individuals aged 15 to 59 who have experienced dengue hospitalizations exceeding 24 hours, as well as healthcare professionals up to 59 years old, encompassing both public and private sectors.

While initial discussions contemplated pharmacies administering vaccines to Apross members,there’s no indication that this provision will be implemented anytime soon. Rosas emphasizes, “Currently, the distribution and management of vaccine doses remain strictly under the purview of the provincial Health Department, operating within established distribution frameworks.”

This centralized approach reflects a prioritization of control and uniformity in vaccine governance across the country.

Argentina’s dengue Vaccine Rollout: A Focus on Priority Groups

Argentina is currently in the midst of a dengue vaccine rollout, prioritizing specific groups based on risk factors. Mariano Reyes, representing the Argentine Health Ministry, sheds light on the criteria, logistics, and public messaging surrounding this important public health initiative.

Currently, the national government oversees the distribution of dengue vaccine doses, relying on established frameworks managed by provincial health departments. This centralized approach aims to ensure equitable and efficient distribution across all regions.

“The strategy primarily targets individuals aged 15 to 59 who have experienced dengue-related hospitalizations lasting over 24 hours,” Reyes explains.

Healthcare professionals under 59 years old, working in both public and private sectors, also receive priority consideration. These groups were identified based on their increased exposure to the virus and their crucial role in public health.

Pharmacies and Vaccine administration

While discussions have taken place regarding the potential involvement of pharmacies in vaccine administration, especially for members of Apross (Argentine Association of Pharmacists), no concrete plans have materialized.

“As of now, pharmacies do not have the authorization to administer vaccines,” Reyes confirms.

Looking Ahead: Adaptability and Efficiency

The government acknowledges the need for a flexible approach to vaccine distribution.

“It’s crucial that the system remains adaptable and responsive to evolving needs and priorities,” Reyes states. As vaccine supply increases, we anticipate expansions in eligibility criteria and the potential exploration of new delivery methods. Nonetheless, the current state-controlled system effectively operates within established frameworks to ensure that vaccines reach those most in need,” he assures.

A Message of Patience and Trust

To individuals eagerly awaiting their turn to receive the vaccine, reyes offers a message of reassurance. “patience and trust in the system are key.” He emphasizes that the rollout is designed to prioritize the most vulnerable, with everyone eventually receiving the opportunity for vaccination.

“The rollout is complex, but it is designed to ensure that those at highest risk are protected first. Everyone’s turn will come, and we encourage everyone to remain informed and vigilant about the process,” Reyes concludes.

What are the specific criteria used to determine which individuals aged 15 to 59 are prioritized for vaccination?

Pharmacy’s Role in argentina’s Vaccine Distribution: An interview with Mariano Rosas

An Insight into Argentina’s Vaccine Distribution Strategy

Q: Mariano, could you give us an overview of Argentina’s current vaccine distribution strategy?

Mariano Rosas: “Currently, Argentina’s vaccine distribution is managed centrally by the provincial Health Departments, following a framework that prioritizes certain groups based on their risk factors.”

Q: Which groups are currently prioritized for vaccination?

MR: “The strategy primarily targets individuals aged 15 to 59 who have experienced dengue-related hospitalizations lasting over 24 hours, and healthcare professionals under 59 years old, working in both public and private sectors.”

Q: How does this centralized approach ensure equitable distribution?

MR: “The central management aims to maintain control and uniformity, ensuring that vaccines reach all regions equally and efficiently.”

Pharmacies and Vaccine Administration

Q: Have there been discussions about pharmacies administering vaccines, notably for Apross members?

MR: “While discussions have taken place, there’s no indication that this provision will be implemented anytime soon. Currently, the distribution and management of vaccine doses remain strictly under the purview of the provincial Health Department.”

Q: What are the main challenges in involving pharmacies in vaccine administration?

MR: “Authorization and procedural aspects are the primary challenges. Pharmacists can indeed play a role, but it requires careful planning and approval from relevant authorities.”

Looking Ahead: Flexibility and Innovation

Q: As vaccine supply increases,how might the strategy evolve?

MR: “We anticipate expansions in eligibility criteria and the potential exploration of new delivery methods. The system must remain adaptable and responsive to evolving needs and priorities.”

Q: Lastly,what message would you like to convey to those eagerly waiting for their turn to receive the vaccine?

MR: “Patience and trust in the system are key. The rollout is designed to prioritize the most vulnerable. Everyone’s turn will come, and we encourage everyone to remain informed and vigilant about the process.”