MARCH 16, 2023

Get vaccinated with the double vaccine: Health Ministry begins vaccination and prevention campaign against influenza and SARS-CoV-2 viruses

The ministry’s goal is to ensure coverage of 85% of the target population in the case of influenza. For bivalent SARS-CoV-2, the goal is to surpass 80% at the national level by target group. 

The Health Ministry (MINSAL) has launched the “Get vaccinated with the double vaccine now” campaign, in order to emphasize the importance of being up to date with vaccination against influenza and SARS-CoV-2. The campaign also makes it clear that one vaccine does not replace the other. 

In this regard, MINSAL has stressed that the influenza and SARS-CoV-2 viruses cause respiratory disease that can vary from a mild condition to more serious forms, including hospitalization for acute respiratory failure to death.  

Both are highly contagious and are transmitted through secretions and droplets that contain the virus. Coughing, sneezing and contamination of surfaces therefore pose a risk of infection to other people. 

Vaccination against influenza begins this month. The campaign aims for people to be prepared for winter, the time when the greatest number of cases of this disease arise. 

Bivalent vaccination against COVID-19 began last October 11 throughout Chile for target groups prioritized by the health authorities. It includes vaccination against two strains – the original and Omicron. This year, vaccinations will be given to the general public. 

Who should get vaccinated? 

Against influenza:

All the population at higher risk: 

  • Pregnant women 
  • People with chronic illnesses 
  • People over 65 years of age
  • Children between six months and 11 years of age 

Against COVID-19:

All people over three years of age: 

COVID-19 vaccine from the age of three for the entire population.

Booster dose with bivalent COVID-19 vaccine from 12 years of age for priority groups: 

  • People over 50 years of age
  • Immunosuppressed people 
  • People with chronic illnesses 
  • Caregivers 
  • Health establishment staff 
  • Employees of companies that provide basic services. 
Objective of the vaccination plan 

The goal of the influenza campaign is to ensure coverage of 85% of the target population. This will meet the goals committed to by the Public Health Undersecretary and ensure a high level of protection for the target population. 

The goal of the bivalent SARS-CoV-2 campaign is to achieve vaccination coverage greater than or equal to 80% at the national level by target group. 

For more information, visit www.minsal.cl/vacunate-con-la-dupla/ or call Salud Responde on 6003607777.