Peru intensifies dengue vaccination and control measures

Peru is expanding its dengue vaccination strategy following a significant rise in cases. The Ministry of Health (Minsa) has updated technical regulations to include EsSalud facilities as vaccination points and allow the simultaneous administration of dengue and HPV vaccines during school campaigns. The vaccination program targets individuals aged 10 to 20 in high-risk areas, though current data shows only 2.7% of the target population has completed the required two-dose regimen.

The La Libertad region is facing a critical situation with over 10,000 confirmed cases and five reported deaths, including a four-year-old girl. Authorities in Trujillo and surrounding districts are intensifying vector control through fumigation and community awareness campaigns to eliminate Aedes aegypti breeding sites.

In addition to dengue, health officials are monitoring influenza trends, noting a 20% to 30% increase in cases with a predominance of influenza B and H3N2 viruses. Health experts emphasize the importance of annual vaccination for both influenza and COVID-19 to protect vulnerable populations.