León, Gto. To prevent the increase in respiratory infections in the population due to the arrival of cold fronts and the next winter season, specialists from the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS) recommend that the general population adopt general measures in the event of temperature changes and receive influenza vaccines. seasonal and COVID-19.
Dr. Enrique Alcalá Martínez, coordinator of Medical Programs of the Coordination of First Level Units of the IMSS, highlighted that among the main measures is the increase in the consumption of fruits and foods with high content of vitamin C that help strengthen the immune system. , in addition to dressing properly to go outside in case of changes in temperature.
He added that in the presence of cold symptoms it is advisable to use face masks to avoid contagion to other people, go to your Family Medicine Unit (FMU) for review and management of the infection, in addition to not self-medicating, particularly with antibiotics. .
He explained that the population groups that may be most affected by temperature changes are children under five years of age and people over 60 years of age, since in this particular population, viruses and bacteria attack the immune system with greater force, which is why it is It is even more relevant that they apply the general measures described above and receive biologicals to prevent these diseases.
In this regard, he recalled that on October 15, 2024, health sector institutions began the Vaccination Campaign for the 2024-2025 Winter Season aimed at vulnerable groups. The goal of Social Security is to apply a total of 12.7 million doses of influenza vaccine and 7.6 million doses in the case of COVID-19 by March 28, 2025.
He reported that as of November 8, Social Security personnel have applied 3.9 million doses against seasonal influenza, which represents an advance of 30.8 percent of the goal and 691,858 doses for COVID-19, which means 9 percent. percent of expected coverage.
Alcalá Martínez explained that the vaccination campaign is carried out in all IMSS Family Medicine Units from Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. in the PrevenIMSS modules.
In addition, from Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., there are 1,500 semi-fixed vaccination posts in IMSS medical units, in strategic locations with a high influx of population such as schools and shopping centers, in addition to vaccination brigades that attend to companies and daycare centers to immunize people who meet vaccination requirements.
He indicated that in this sectoral effort the IMSS participates with the UMF Nursing staff who work in the PrevenIMSS modules and the hiring of 1,460 vaccinators to care for the semi-permanent positions and the brigades that carry out extramural activities.
He added that the pneumococcus vaccine is also applied to people aged 60 years, which protects them from various respiratory infections caused by this bacteria, “the three vaccines can be applied simultaneously, this does not cause any health problems. It is important that the population comes to get their vaccines and in this way be protected.”
The coordinator of IMSS Medical Programs said that when going to receive the vaccine, it is recommended that they have the National Health Card on hand to record the dose that is being applied and in this way have control of their vaccination schedule.
Winter Health Tips from IMSS: Stay Healthy, Stay Vaccinated!
León, Gto. – So, the chilly winds are wrapping around us like an overzealous hug from your nan and the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS) has stepped in, waving its metaphorical arms like a traffic cop at a seriously confused intersection. But they’re not directing traffic; they’re steering us away from the impending tidal wave of respiratory infections! Yes, my friends, it’s that magical time of year when we can wear our most ridiculous winter woollies while simultaneously trying to blame the weather for our sneezes and coughs.
Is it Vitamin C or Just an Orange? Let’s Find Out!
Enter Dr. Enrique Alcalá Martínez, our guiding luminary from IMSS, preaching the gospel of vitamin C. Apparently, that lovely, juicy fruit you pass by in the store can be your shield against the sneezy marauders lurking in the cold air outside. And let’s be honest, “an apple a day keeps the doctor away” is all well and good, but it’s really that burst of orange that gives you the edge against those winter bugs!
But let’s not forget the essential fashion tips! Dressing appropriately for the temperature changes is not just a suggestion—it’s practically a commandment. You wouldn’t go out in a flip-flop in a snowstorm, right? (Unless you want to be one of those people with a story to tell during summer barbecues.)
Social Distancing’s Cool Cousin: The Face Mask
Now, moving on to the rule of thumb that is a face mask. Yes, we’re talking about that accessory you probably thought you’d retired in favor of a less frightening reality. Wearing a mask when you have cold symptoms? A tip straight from the IMSS playbook! It’s like wearing a ‘do not disturb’ sign with a side of “please don’t catch my germs!” How considerate!
And remember—the good ol’ Family Medicine Unit (FMU) is where it’s at if you’re feeling under the weather! They’re not there just for fun. And whatever you do, do NOT self-medicate! I mean, unless you’re aiming for a game of “Guess that Side Effect,” in which case, have at it. Just maybe skip on the antibiotics unless your doctor gives you the green light.
Vulnerable Groups: Don’t Be a Statistic!
Hear me out: the folks who need the most care when Old Man Winter comes knocking are the little ones under five and our senior citizens over sixty. These guys are the VIPs in the respiratory infection arena. They can be taken down by viruses and bacteria faster than a toddler can throw a tantrum in a candy store!
So, IMSS is kickstarting its Vaccination Campaign for the 2024-2025 Winter Season. Starting October 15, 2024, they’re out to protect those vulnerable groups like knights defending their castle. With a target of 12.7 million doses of the influenza vaccine and 7.6 million doses for COVID-19, they’re packing some serious protective firepower!
How’s the Progress, You Ask?
As of November 8, they’d already administered 3.9 million doses against seasonal influenza—30.8% of their target! And 691,858 doses for COVID-19, just 9%. So, clearly we’ve got some room to grow, folks! If you haven’t gotten your seasonal jab yet, this is your official nudge (or maybe a gentle shove) to get your bottom to the vaccination post!
A Shot in the Arm and a Wink of Health!
The vaccination campaign is running full throttle from Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 8 PM at the trusty PrevenIMSS modules. There are 1,500 semi-fixed vaccination posts strategically placed in schools and shopping centers because who doesn’t love mixing shopping with a dose of health? It’s the new two-for-one!
Plus, for our lovely seniors, the pneumococcus vaccine is being offered to protect against nasty respiratory infections. Yes, you heard that right! Three vaccines at once, just like a health buffet! No side effects—but don’t forget your National Health Card; it’s the ticket to keeping track of your health journey.
Let’s Wrap It Up!
So, as we dive head-first into winter, let’s take a page from Dr. Alcalá’s book and arm ourselves with knowledge, healthy habits, and a good sense of humor. Get your flu and COVID-19 vaccines, eat those vibrant fruits, and stay smart about your health—because nobody wants to be crawling back, sniffling to the doctor like a puppy with its tail between its legs!
Be smart, be safe, and for goodness’ sake—stay warm!
How can vulnerable groups best prepare for the winter season to avoid respiratory infections?
**Interview with Dr. Enrique Alcalá Martínez on Winter Health Tips**
**Interviewer:** Good morning, Dr. Alcalá Martínez! Thank you for joining us today. With the winter season approaching, what key advice do you have for the general population to prevent respiratory infections this year?
**Dr. Alcalá Martínez:** Good morning! Thank you for having me. As the winter season approaches, it’s crucial for everyone to adopt some essential health measures. First and foremost, increasing the intake of fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C is important to strengthen our immune systems. Additionally, dressing appropriately for the fluctuating temperatures is vital. No one wants to be caught outside in flip-flops during a snowstorm!
**Interviewer:** Excellent advice! Now, we’ve all heard about the importance of wearing masks, especially during the colder months. Can you elaborate on when and why they should be worn?
**Dr. Alcalá Martínez:** Certainly! Wearing a face mask is especially important if you exhibit cold symptoms. It serves as a considerate way to prevent the spread of germs to others. Think of it as a way of communicating, “I’m not feeling my best, and I’d appreciate your space.” It’s also essential to visit your Family Medicine Unit (FMU) for proper diagnosis and management if you’re feeling unwell, rather than attempting to self-medicate.
**Interviewer:** That’s very thoughtful advice. Who are the specific groups that need to be especially cautious during this season?
**Dr. Alcalá Martínez:** The most vulnerable groups include children under five and seniors over sixty. Their immune systems can be significantly affected by viruses and bacteria, which is why it’s crucial for them to stick to preventive measures and receive their vaccinations.
**Interviewer:** Speaking of vaccinations, can you tell us about the upcoming Vaccination Campaign?
**Dr. Alcalá Martínez:** Absolutely! Starting October 15, 2024, the IMSS will launch its Vaccination Campaign for the 2024-2025 winter season. Our goal is to administer 12.7 million doses of the influenza vaccine and 7.6 million doses for COVID-19 by March 28, 2025. We have already administered 3.9 million doses of the influenza vaccine and 691,858 doses for COVID-19 as of November 8.
**Interviewer:** That’s impressive progress! Where can people go to receive their vaccines?
**Dr. Alcalá Martínez:** Vaccines can be obtained at all IMSS Family Medicine Units from Monday to Friday, between 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. Additionally, we have 1,500 semi-fixed vaccination posts in strategic locations like schools and shopping centers. We also have brigades visiting companies and daycare centers to ensure everyone who needs a vaccine can access it.
**Interviewer:** It sounds like the IMSS is doing a great job to keep the community healthy this winter. Any final thoughts for our audience as we approach the holiday season?
**Dr. Alcalá Martínez:** Yes! It’s important for everyone to stay vigilant about their health. Remember to take care of your nutrition, dress appropriately for the cold, wear masks if you’re experiencing symptoms, and get vaccinated. These simple actions can make a huge difference in keeping yourself and those around you healthy this winter.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Alcalá Martínez, for sharing these invaluable insights with us today!
**Dr. Alcalá Martínez:** Thank you for having me! Stay healthy, everyone!
