SP expands flu vaccine for the entire population; find out more

Flu vaccination was expanded in São Paulo and, from this Monday (1st), it will be available to the entire population over 6 months of age. The measure is valid for the 645 municipalities in São Paulo and the campaign continues until the end of June.

The doses are being applied in Basic Health Units (UBSs) spread across the state. The expansion comes after the start of the campaign aimed at priority groups, a strategy adopted annually to protect people at greatest risk of developing complications caused by influenza.

According to the São Paulo State Department of Health (SES-SP), the decision aims to increase vaccination coverage and reduce the circulation of the virus, especially during the colder months, when there is an increase in cases of respiratory diseases.

The director of the Epidemiological Surveillance Center (CVE), Tatiana Lang, highlighted that vaccination not only protects those who receive the dose, but also contributes to reducing the transmission of influenza and relieving pressure on hospitals and other health services.

At the beginning of the campaign, immunization was targeted at priority groups. This audience included elderly people aged 60 or over, children aged 6 months to under 6 years, pregnant women, women who have recently given birth and people with chronic illnesses.

Even with the expansion to the entire population, the Department of Health reinforces that these groups continue to be the most vulnerable to serious forms of the disease and should seek vaccination as soon as possible.

Conditions that increase the risk of complications include cardiorespiratory diseases, diabetes, morbid obesity and other comorbidities or special clinical conditions.

According to the department's most recent balance, more than 5.6 million doses of the flu vaccine have already been administered in the state of São Paulo in 2026.

In addition to vaccination, health authorities advise the population to adopt simple measures to prevent respiratory infections. These include frequent hygiene of hands and everyday objects, maintaining ventilated environments and adequate hydration.

It is also recommended to maintain a balanced diet, rich in fruits and vegetables, strengthen immunity, avoid the accumulation of dust and mold indoors and take vitamin and mineral supplements when provided with professional guidance.

The expectation of the Department of Health is to expand collective protection against influenza in this period of greater circulation of respiratory viruses, reducing serious cases, hospitalizations and complications associated with the disease.

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Source: CNN