Chile’s Maule Region surpasses 80% flu vaccine coverage amid winter rollout

The Maule health region reported 80.28% coverage of the seasonal influenza vaccine, placing it second nationwide after Tarapacá and meeting the Ministry of Health’s July target. Health officials, including nurse Marisol Concha, said the achievement resulted from mobile vaccination units, school‑based clinics, and collaborations with municipalities. The region aims to reach the 85% goal by targeting the remaining 5% of the eligible population.

In Valparaíso, municipal health services achieved 76.88% coverage, exceeding the national average of 76.31% and highlighting successful primary‑care outreach, though coverage among seniors over 60 remains at 61%.

To address an early rise in Influenza B and colder weather, the Ministry of Health opened temporary vaccination points in Salcobrand and Farmacias Ahumada stores in Santiago and Viña del Mar, offering free shots to anyone who purchases a vaccine at those pharmacies.

The same health ministry also intensified its measles campaign, noting that more than 140 000 Chilean children have not yet received the required second dose. Officials urged parents to complete the schedule at public or private vaccination sites to prevent import‑linked outbreaks.