Measles and Polio Vaccination Drive in La Libertad Exceeds 90% Goal
La Libertad leads the nation in vaccination efforts, protecting thousands of children against measles and polio. According to the Single National Repository of Health Information (Reunis), more than 165,000 children aged 1 to 6 received the additional dose of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine, while over 131,000 received the polio vaccine.
Impressive Progress and Ongoing Efforts
La Libertad has achieved impressive milestones in its vaccination campaign. The department has reached 90% of its National Measles Vaccination Goal and 89% of its Polio Vaccination goal.
Reunis data reveals that of La Libertad’s 83 districts, 67 have achieved 95% vaccine coverage. The provinces of Gran Chimú, Pataz, Pacasmayo, Julcán, Santiago de Chuco, Otuzco, Sánchez Carrión, Bolívar, Ascope, Virú, and Chepén have all surpassed the 95% vaccination target. Only Trujillo province is lagging, highlighting the need for continued efforts in this area.
To bridge this gap, health teams continue to visit initial education institutions, ensuring every child receives the crucial protection against measles and polio.
Vaccination Campaigns Across La Libertad
Most recently, the Integrated Health Network (RIS) conducted a vaccination drive on November 28th in the main square of Virú province. Schoolchildren, aged six and under, from the Perpetuo Socoro and Virú educational institutions received the measles vaccine.
The children who are users of the Virgin Glass of Milk Committee of Las Mercedes de Trujillo were also included in this vaccination drive. Regional Health Manager, Aníbal Morillo Arqueros, participated in this initiative, highlighting its importance for public health.
Free Vaccines Available at Health Centers
Health officials remind parents that vaccines within the National Vaccination Scheme are readily available and free to all at health facilities.
More in Andina
What specific challenges might other regions face when trying to replicate La Libertad’s success?
## Interview: La Libertad Leads the Nation in Measles and Polio Vaccination Drive
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**HOST:** Welcome back to the show. Joining us today is Dr. Alex Reed, a leading expert on infectious diseases and public health. Dr. Alex Reed, La Libertad has just announced incredible news – their measles and polio vaccination drive has surpassed a 90% goal. What does this achievement mean for the region?
**DR. [GUEST NAME]:** Thank you for having me. This is truly fantastic news for La Libertad and a testament to the hard work and dedication of healthcare workers and the community. Reaching over 90% vaccination coverage for measles and polio is a significant milestone. It means thousands of children are now better protected from these serious, potentially deadly diseases.
**HOST:** That’s incredibly positive. Can you explain why these vaccination rates are so important, especially for measles? We see news about measles outbreaks in other parts of the world.
**DR. [GUEST NAME]:** Absolutely. Measles is a highly contagious disease that can cause severe complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis, and even death. Measles outbreaks can occur quickly when vaccination rates are low. Achieving high vaccination coverage like we’re seeing in La Libertad creates a barrier against the spread of measles, protecting not only vaccinated individuals but also those who are too young or medically unable to be vaccinated.
**HOST:** So essentially, it creates herd immunity?
**DR. [GUEST NAME]:** Exactly. When a large percentage of the population is immune to a disease, it becomes much harder for it to spread, protecting even those who are vulnerable.
**HOST:** Congratulations to La Libertad on this achievement! What message would you have for other regions hoping to achieve similar success?
**DR. [GUEST NAME]:** Firstly, recognize the importance of community engagement. Public trust and education are crucial.
Secondly, ensure easy access to vaccination services and address any concerns or misinformation surrounding vaccines.
acknowledge and celebrate the dedication of healthcare workers who play a vital role in immunization campaigns.
**HOST:** Thank you so much for your insights, Dr. Alex Reed. This is encouraging news for public health in our country.
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