Galicia launches Combogal clinical trial for combined flu and COVID-19 vaccine

The Xunta de Galicia has launched the Combogal clinical trial to evaluate the efficacy of a combined vaccine for influenza and COVID-19. Developed in collaboration with Denmark, the study targets individuals over 65 and will be conducted across 14 public hospitals in Galicia. The trial aims to assess the vaccine's ability to prevent hospitalizations and seeks to reduce vaccine fatigue by simplifying the administration process. Officials expect to reach between 110,000 and 130,000 participants through the 2027-2028 season.

In other health-related developments in Chile, a medical operation at the Ernesto Torres Galdames Regional Hospital in Iquique is providing over 300 ophthalmological consultations and surgeries to reduce waiting lists. Meanwhile, the new Ancud Hospital is progressing through its phased opening process, focusing on sanitary authorizations and equipment installation. In Puente Alto, the government has announced plans to restore a permanent police presence and repair infrastructure at the Cardenal Raúl Silva Henríquez health center following a violent attack by protesters. Additionally, the Court of Appeals in Coyhaique has ordered urgent sanitary evaluations and essential care guarantees for an elderly care facility following reports of deaths and abuse.