Dengue Vaccinations Begin in San Nicolás Amidst Limited Supply
A wave of relief and cautious optimism swept through San Nicolás as the provincial government launched its free dengue vaccination campaign, targeting specific demographics considered most vulnerable to the mosquito-borne disease. The San Felipe Hospital received its first batch of 111 doses, marking a hopeful step forward in the fight against dengue, but concerns linger about the limited availability of the vaccine, particularly in private pharmacies.
Targeted Approach
This first phase of the vaccination campaign will focus on individuals between 15 and 59 who contracted dengue more than six months ago. These individuals are considered most susceptible to reinfection and are prioritized based on scientific evidence indicating the potential benefits of vaccination in this demographic. The provincial campaign utilizes a unique appointment system, mirroring the COVID-19 vaccine rollout, sending email notifications to eligible individuals within the targeted age range who previously experienced dengue.
Anyone who believes they meet the criteria but hasn’t yet received an email can register on the Buenos Aires Ministry of Health website through the My Digital Health platform. It’s important to note that this phase focuses on individuals who have previously contracted dengue, not the general population.
Public vs. Private Sector Discrepancy
While the San Felipe Hospital, operating under provincial jurisdiction, received its initial supply of vaccines, Cempre, a municipal health institution, hasn’t received any doses yet. This discrepancy highlights a potential challenge in resource allocation and raises questions about the accessibility of the vaccine for residents relying on Cempre for healthcare.
The Dengue Vaccine: A Two-Dose Regimen
The dengue vaccine deployed in this campaign requires two subcutaneous injections, with a minimum interval of three months between doses. Full immunization is achieved ten days after the second dose. “The vaccine is extremely important for those who are eligible,” emphasized Liliana Manavella from the San Felipe Hospital’s vaccination centre. “It’s a vital tool in our fight against dengue, but it’s crucial to understand it’s not suitable for everyone.”
She stressed that the vaccine is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and individuals with compromised immune systems or those undergoing certain treatments, like high-dose chemotherapy or corticosteroid therapy, should not receive it. Those who recently contracted dengue must wait six months from their last infection before being eligible for vaccination.
Prevention Remains Key
Beyond vaccination, health authorities, including the Ministry of Health, continue to emphasize the importance of preventative measures. The ongoing battle against dengue relies heavily on eliminating mosquito breeding grounds.
“Cleaning around your home is the first line of defense,” stressed Manavella. “Covering containers that collect water, like tanks and reservoirs, is essential. Wash out containers and gutters regularly with a brush or sponge to get rid of mosquito eggs. Throw away any unused items that could gather rainwater and keep yards and gardens clean.”Be vigilant after rainfall and turn over objects that can hold water, such as buckets and pots.”
Pharmacy Shortage Adds to Concerns
Adding another layer of complexity to the situation, pharmacies across the country continue to grapple with a shortage of dengue vaccines. Takeda, the laboratory responsible for the Qdenga formula authorized by Anmat, promised to meet the demand by October, but delays have fueled uncertainty about when the vaccines will be accessible.
Many pharmacies have been without stock for almost two months.
“The demand for
How is eligibility for the dengue vaccine determined in San Nicolás?
## Interview with Dr. Anna Garcia on Dengue Vaccinations in San Nicolás
**Host:** Welcome back to the show, Dr. Garcia. Today we’re discussing the exciting news of dengue vaccinations beginning in San Nicolás. Can you tell our viewers about this new initiative?
**Dr García:** Absolutely. It’s a big step forward in protecting our community. The province has launched a free vaccination campaign targeting individuals aged 15 to 59 who have previously had dengue. This is crucial because those who have been infected before are at higher risk for severe illness if they contract dengue again.
**Host:** This vaccine rollout seems targeted. Is that correct?
**Dr. Garcia:** Yes, the initial phase prioritizes those who have previously contracted dengue and are considered most susceptible to reinfection. [[1]] It’s a smart approach backed by scientific evidence showing the vaccine’s potential benefits for this demographic.
**Host:** Where can people learn more about eligibility and book their vaccine appointment?
**Dr. Garcia:** The provincial government is using an appointment system similar to the one used for COVID-19 vaccinations. Eligible individuals who’ve previously had dengue will receive email notifications directing them to the My Digital Health platform on the Buenos Aires Ministry of Health website. Those who haven’t received an email but believe they meet the criteria can also register through the platform.
**Host:** We’ve heard reports of a potential shortage in supply, especially in private healthcare facilities. Can you shed some light on this?
**Dr. Garcia:** There have been some challenges regarding distribution. While the San Felipe Hospital received its initial batch of doses, Cempre, a municipal health institution, hasn’t yet received any. This disparity raises questions about resource allocation and highlights the need for equitable access to the vaccine, regardless of where people seek healthcare.
**Host:** What about the vaccine itself? How many doses are needed, and how long does it take to be fully immunized?
**Dr. Garcia:** The dengue vaccine requires two subcutaneous injections, given at least three months apart. Full immunization is achieved ten days after the second dose. [[1]]
**Host:** Thank you for your insights, Dr. Garcia. This is definitely encouraging news for San Nicolás, and hopefully, we’ll see a decrease in dengue cases as the campaign progresses.
**Dr. Garcia:** It’s certainly a positive step, and I encourage everyone who is eligible to take advantage of this opportunity to protect themselves from dengue.