Distrito Federal expands special vaccine access via local health units

The Distrito Federal has established the Rede de Imunobiológicos para Pessoas com Situações Especiais (RIE-DF) to expand the availability of special vaccines and immunoglobulins. This measure, published in the Official Gazette of the DF, formalizes a system to provide specialized immunization to individuals with specific clinical conditions or higher health risks.

The target groups include people with chronic diseases, cancer, immunodeficiencies, neurological conditions, transplant recipients, individuals living with HIV, those using immunosuppressive medications, and premature infants.

Under the new structure, requests can be evaluated in person or remotely. The system integrates the Cold Chain Management, Epidemiological Surveillance and Immunization Nuclei (NVEPI), Special Immunobiological Reference Centers (CRIE), and basic health unit (UBS) vaccination rooms. The plan also includes the implementation of Intermediate Special Immunobiological Centers (CIIE) to analyze requests and administer vaccines. To access the service, patients must present a clinical report from a doctor or nurse justifying the need for the specific immunobiological, along with their vaccination record, at their reference UBS.