Brazil health officials stress year‑round vaccination amid flu and COVID cases

The Hospital Estadual de Formosa (HEF) in Goiás reported 535 dengue consultations, 491 influenza cases and 21 Covid‑19 cases between January and May, prompting the institute to urge the public to keep vaccination up to date at every stage of life. Nurse Karolina Reis emphasized that vaccines are a safe, effective way to prevent severe disease for children, adolescents, adults and the elderly.

In Mato Grosso do Sul, the state health secretariat highlighted that only 43.85% of residents have received the seasonal influenza vaccine. The latest epidemiological bulletin recorded 3,523 severe acute respiratory syndrome (SRAG) hospitalisations, 525 confirmed influenza infections (378 A and 147 B) and 67 flu‑related deaths this year. Coordinator Ana Paula Goldfinger reiterated vaccination as the primary tool to protect vulnerable groups, while also recommending basic preventive measures such as hand hygiene, ventilation and mask use. Both agencies are conducting active outreach, including mobile vaccination units and campaigns in schools and long‑term care facilities, to raise coverage and curb the spread of vaccine‑preventable diseases.