The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) said this week that more than two-thirds of people in Latin America and the Caribbean have already received two doses of the Covid-19 vaccine. However, some countries have not yet reached half the population in vaccination coverage.
In an interview with the press, on Wednesday (20), the director of PAHO, Carissa F. Etienne, asked that people get vaccinated and also guarantee the protection of family and friends.
“Covid-19 vaccines work and are very safe,” said the director. “They are protecting the majority of people in our region from the worst consequences of Covid-19 infection,” she added.
Carissa noted that 14 countries and territories in the region have already reached the World Health Organization (WHO) target of vaccinating 70% of their populations before June 30, and eight more countries have reached more than 60% coverage.
However, while there are sufficient vaccine supplies to meet demand in the Americas, some countries continue to lag behind, according to PAHO.
In the Caribbean, less than 30% of people received their first dose of their first vaccine in Haiti, Jamaica, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and Saint Lucia. In Latin America, Guatemala, Guyana and Paraguay have not yet reached 50% coverage.
PAHO says it works with countries to provide technical assistance for vaccination campaigns, as well as planning and communication support to help fill gaps.
“Vaccination is a family affair and it’s up to all of us to make sure our loved ones are protected. If you or a family member has not yet been vaccinated against Covid-19, talk to a healthcare professional about your questions and concerns,” said Carissa.
Expansion of vaccine coverage
PAHO advises that countries should integrate Covid-19 vaccination efforts into routine immunization campaigns.
The measure could, for example, allow pregnant women to receive the vaccine against the disease along with immunizations against flu and tetanus, diphtheria and whooping cough. In addition, it will allow parents to get the vaccines and protect their children against diseases such as measles and polio.
According to PAHO, the emergency infrastructure created to deliver vaccines against Covid-19 in record time should also be used to expand vaccine coverage for other diseases.
Basic care helps prevent respiratory diseases
Source: CNN Brasil
