2024 Seasonal Vaccination Campaign launched by Ministry of Health

In addition to the free vaccination against influenza and COVID-19 to everyone who is six months old or older, the Pneumococcal 20 Vaccine (PCV 20) will also be offered free of charge to all individuals aged 65 or older, the Ministry for Health and A

By: independent.com.mt

Oct 09 2024
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2024 Seasonal Vaccination Camp

The seasonal vaccination campaign will start on October 21st and continue until December 15th, the Ministry said.

It remarked that this campaign is part of the government's ongoing commitment to public health and safety. It added that it serves as testimony to the government's commitment to investing in health protection and ensuring the well-being of the elderly.

Expanding on the PCV 20 vaccine, the Ministry said that the vaccine has now been included in the national formulary, and continued that it protects against infections caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, which is a bacterium responsible for serious infections such as chest infections and sepsis, particularly in older adults.

Eligible individuals will be able to receive their vaccinations throughout the week, including weekends and public holidays, at Mosta, Floriana, Paola, and the Gozo health centres. This is provided through a walk-in service from 13:00 to 19:00.

Vaccinations will also be available at Bormla, Birkirkara, Gzira, Kirkop, Rabat, and the Qormi health centres from Monday to Friday, excluding public holidays. This is also provided through a walk-in service from 13:00 to 19:00.

After December 15, 2024, Influenza and COVID-19 vaccines will continue to be available through health centre treatment rooms, the Ministry said. It added that the PCV 20 vaccine will be available by appointment through the National Immunization Service clinics.

It commented that persons who are residents of elderly homes, San Vincenz de Paule, or the Karin Grech Rehabilitation Hospital, will be offered vaccinations at the residence.

All three vaccinations can be given in one session or spread out as needed based on patient preference, the Ministry said.

It concluded by saying that getting the annual flu shot and the COVID-19 vaccine is one of the best ways to protect oneself from serious illness. It added that these vaccines protect against the latest variants of the virus, and that being vaccinated every year reduces the risk of severe complications and also helps prevent the spread of the virus in the community.

"Those who are eligible are encouraged to take this opportunity and protect themselves. Vaccination is a crucial step in safeguarding community health, especially during flu season," the Ministry stated.