Brazilian cities expand free vaccination, warn on dengue vaccine uptake

The municipality of Barra de São Francisco (Brazil) is offering dozens of vaccines free of charge for all age groups at four health centres. The program includes childhood vaccines such as BCG, polio and pentavalent, as well as adolescent, adult and senior shots including HPV, influenza, COVID‑19, hepatitis and meningococcal vaccines. Officials stress the importance of keeping vaccination records up to date to maintain community immunity.

In Campo Grande, the municipal health department reiterated that the Qdenga dengue vaccine for children and teens is safe and continues to be offered, while noting that overall coverage remains low at about 40 % of the target population. A separate dengue vaccine from Butantan was temporarily suspended after reports of serious adverse events. Health authorities warned against misinformation and urged residents to seek official guidance and keep vaccination cards current.