Araguaína expands child vaccination and launches mobile imaging unit

The municipal health department in Araguaína, Brazil, began administering the new Pneumo 20 vaccine to children under five, receiving 500 doses to add to the public immunisation schedule. The 20‑serotype vaccine replaces the previous Pneumo 10, aiming to better prevent pneumonia, meningitis, otitis and bloodstream infections. Health secretary Dênia Rodrigues highlighted the benefit for children and special groups such as indigenous communities.

At the same time, Araguaína received the first SUS‑operated mobile unit for specialized imaging. The truck, equipped with a 16‑slice CT scanner and ultrasound facilities, will operate weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., offering up to 60 examinations per day. During its initial period, the unit is slated to perform 1,344 CT scans and 1,344 ultrasounds, serving Araguaína and neighbouring municipalities in the Médio Norte Araguaia health region. The service is scheduled through the municipal regulation centre, reducing waiting times for diagnosis and treatment.