Michoacán calls for vaccination against influenza and pneumococcus in winter.

During the winter season, public health takes on paramount importance, and in this context, the Health Secretariat of Michoacán (SSM) has issued a call to the population to get vaccinated against influenza and pneumococcus. This initiative aims to prevent serious complications that could lead to hospitalization, especially among vulnerable groups. Influenza, a contagious respiratory illness, can be particularly dangerous for children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions. The statement issued by the SSM emphasizes that vaccination is essential not only to protect those who are inoculated but also to protect the community at large. By getting vaccinated, individuals help reduce the transmission of the virus, thereby protecting those who cannot receive the vaccine, such as some chronic patients or immunocompromised individuals. The importance of this message is even more significant in a context where hospitalization rates for respiratory illnesses tend to rise during the colder months of the year. Vaccines are available at all health centers in Michoacán, as well as at ISSSTE clinics and IMSS family medicine units. This wide accessibility is an effort by the authorities to ensure that as many people as possible can receive immunization. In this way, it is hoped that adequate coverage will be achieved to mitigate the effects of these diseases on the population. It is important to mention that the influenza vaccine is recommended for children from six months to five years old, as well as for adults over 60, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic illnesses. In this regard, caregivers and family members are urged to seek vaccination for the children and elderly individuals in their care. Prevention is always better than treatment, and vaccination is an effective tool in this effort. The situation is similar with the pneumococcus vaccine, which is also essential for protecting vulnerable groups. For children under five years old, a dose is recommended at two and four months, along with a booster at 12 months. On the other hand, older adults and those with comorbidities such as diabetes or lung diseases should receive it to protect themselves against severe infections that may arise from pneumococcus. The SSM has highlighted that there are two types of vaccines available to combat pneumococcus: the 13-valent and the 23-valent. While the first protects against serotypes that cause severe diseases like meningitis, the second is aimed at adults with chronic health conditions. This differentiation in vaccines allows for a more personalized approach to health care, adapting to the specific needs of each population group. As the winter season progresses, it is crucial for the population to take this invitation to get vaccinated seriously. Vaccination campaigns are not only an individual responsibility but also a collective commitment to public health. Each person who gets vaccinated contributes to creating a safer environment for all, decreasing the likelihood of outbreaks and complications in the community. Moreover, it is vital for citizens to understand that vaccination not only protects those who receive it but also acts as a protective barrier for those whose health could be compromised by exposure to these viruses. Immunization is a powerful and essential tool in the fight against respiratory illnesses. The SSM remains attentive to the needs of the population and is committed to providing not only vaccines but also the necessary information and resources to promote a culture of prevention. This effort, which seeks to build a healthier society, depends on everyone's collaboration. The invitation to get vaccinated represents a fundamental step towards a safer and healthier winter for all Michoacans.