Simon Wade
THE Valencia region is inviting the elderly and those considered ‘at risk’ to take a flu vaccine to reduce the strain on the healthcare system ahead of colder months.
A region-wide campaign begins on October 5 by appointment only in order to comply with social-distancing regulations during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Ana Barcelo, Public Health Minister for Valencia, said: “The campaign aims to avoid the complications of flu, so it targets the population groups most likely to suffer.”
She revealed on Saturday plans to vaccinate at least 75% of all citizens 65 and over in the region.
The invitations will go firstly to people living and working in homes and day centres.
Over 800,000 doses will be distributed by the Ministry of Health.
Barcelo added: “For many years, the flu vaccine has shown that it’s safe and effective [and] vaccinated people have a lower risk of complications.”
She admitted the burden on healthcare needs to be minimised, as it can be ‘overloaded during flu season.’
