In order to prevent yellow fever and reinforce immunization coverage in the region, the Specialized Health Unit of the Universidad Industrial de Santander, UISALUD, carried out a free vaccination day on Wednesday, May 14, aimed at people between 2 and 59 years of age without associated pathologies.
The activity took place in front of the UISALUD headquarters from 8:00 a. m. to 12:00 m. and from 2:00 p. m. to 5:00 p. m., and was accompanied by the Center for Disease Diagnosis (CDI), the entity responsible for the application of the biologicals. In addition, the Municipal Health Secretariat delivered 200 doses of vaccine to be applied to the university community.
“The yellow fever vaccine is the most effective method to prevent this viral and hemorrhagic disease. With this day we not only protect the UISALUD user population, but also contribute to increase vaccination coverage in Bucaramanga, the metropolitan area and the department,” explained Denia Manrique, head of nursing at UISALUD and coordinator of the activity.
The professional indicated that this vaccine, of the live attenuated virus type, is applied only once in a lifetime, and that people who have already been vaccinated do not require a new dose. In case of having been previously immunized, the users could register in a form to leave a record.
“It is important to remember that the vaccine should not be applied in people with fever, body pain or general malaise, as it could increase the symptomatology. It is also not recommended for people over 60 years of age without medical evaluation, who can receive it directly at the CDI under clinical control,” added Chief Manrique.
During the day, users highlighted the organization, accessibility and relevance of this type of campaign within the university environment.
“I think these are very important days, especially here where the university community is so large. We have 25,000 students, plus the entire administrative and teaching community. So, these workshops are fundamental, especially because they are close to the place where you are working. You can take five minutes and come to get vaccinated, and be responsible with yourself and with the health system, because it is better to be safe than sorry,” said Marianny Yajaira Combariza Montañez, a user of UISALUD.
Andrés Felipe Bueno, also a user of the day, commented: “First of all, I found out about it through the UIS social networks, and I think it is excellent that they do these activities, as they help us to prevent the yellow fever disease”.
The day emphasized the importance of vaccination to prevent the spread of the virus in the university community and in the general population, especially in those who reside or travel to risk areas.
“The purpose is to avoid the appearance of yellow fever cases and to protect all members of the community. Prevention is the best tool,” said the official.
Finally, UISALUD reminded that, during this national campaign led by the Ministry of Health and Social Protection, vaccination points will continue to be set up in EPS, parks, shopping centers, educational institutions and family welfare centers.
The community can consult information on vaccination schedules and active vaccination points through the My Vaccine page or at the Municipal Health Secretariat.
