Capixabas will have until June 20 to immunize themselves against influenza in the state. The Secretariat of Health (Sesa), through Decision of the Bilateral Committee of Directors (CIB), No. 085/2023, has extended the end of the 25th National Influenza Vaccination Campaign throughout Espírito Santo. The vaccine is available to all residents over the age of six months.

The extension aims to ensure better immunization coverage for priority audiences targeting 90% coverage, namely children aged 6 months to <6 years, pregnant women, puerperal women, the elderly aged 60 years and over, indigenous peoples, teachers, Health workers. As of Tuesday (30), the coverage of the state has reached 39%, according to data from the Vacina e Confia Commission.

In addition, achieving optimal coverage, as recommended by the Ministry of Health, helps control cases and deaths from influenza. As of May 27, Espiritu Santo has a total of 153 cases of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SRAG) due to influenza and 11 deaths.

“The extension of the campaign comes to help protect the population by expanding vaccination coverage. Everyone over the age of six months can be vaccinated, but we appeal, especially to priority groups, to seek a health service close to their home to receive a dose against influenza,” the immunization program coordinator reinforced Government and Control of Vaccine-Preventable Diseases (Prince Edward Island), Daniel Grillo.

The 25th National Influenza Vaccination Campaign started in Espiritu Santo on April 4 this year. The campaign was scheduled to end on May 31, but the Ministry of Health (Sesa) has extended the campaign until June 20.