"Getting vaccinated is loving": the new Health campaign focuses on the collective nature of vaccination

With the arrival of winter, respiratory viruses such as the flu, COVID-19, and bronchiolitis circulate more intensely. The cold weather means we spend less time outdoors and gather more in enclosed spaces, facilitating the transmission of viruses. Although many of these illnesses resolve on their own, they can cause serious complications, especially in at-risk or vulnerable groups such as the elderly, pregnant women, and those with chronic illnesses. Every year, between December and January, this increase in infections leads to a rise in visits to Primary Care Centers (CAPs) and emergency rooms, many of which could be avoided with preventative measures, especially vaccination.

Protect everyone's health

To address this situation, the Catalan Health Department has launched its autumn vaccination campaign, under the slogan "Getting vaccinated is loving," to remind everyone that vaccines are a safe and effective tool for preventing serious complications and reducing infections. The main objective of this initiative is to protect individual and public health, reduce serious complications associated with these infections, and prevent the collapse of healthcare services during the peak infection months.

Although most cases of flu or COVID-19 have a favorable outcome, anyone, even without pre-existing conditions, can suffer a severe form of the illness. The data confirms this: 70% of people who suffered severe flu were unvaccinated. Therefore, vaccination reduces the chances of infection and, in the event of infection, minimizes the risk of complications. However, there are still people who do not get vaccinated. The most frequent reasons are perceiving a low risk due to good personal health, considering themselves outside the at-risk group, never having been vaccinated, or worrying about possible side effects. There are also those who have never had a flu shot or believe that, due to their age, they are not part of the at-risk groups. But the reality is that anyone can suffer severe flu or complications arising from COVID-19. Experts insist that vaccines are safe and undergo rigorous controls, while adverse effects are very rare. The benefits, however, are clear and proven.

An act of responsibility and solidarity

Getting vaccinated is a social responsibility and an act of solidarity. It's not just about individual health; it also prevents transmission to more vulnerable people, such as the elderly or those with chronic illnesses. At the same time, it helps prevent hospitals and health centers from becoming overwhelmed. The Department of Health emphasizes that getting vaccinated is an act of love because it means caring for both others and yourself. Not getting vaccinated can endanger your loved ones. Vaccines are safe, and the risk of critical adverse effects is very low compared to the benefit of preventing a potentially serious or fatal disease.

Debunking misinformation

At a time when information circulates rapidly, it is crucial to avoid spreading false or unverified news about vaccines. This can generate mistrust and discourage the public from taking advantage of a measure essential to public health. The Catalan Department of Health also warns of the danger of sharing unverified information, which can be as dangerous as the virus itself, putting the health of many people at risk, including those who spread it.

Vaccination is one of the most effective tools for preventing the flu. Even people without pre-existing conditions can develop severe forms of the illness. If you are between 60 and 70 years old and feel well, remember that health can change from one day to the next. Getting vaccinated is the most effective way to minimize risks and protect your health and the health of others. Furthermore, the vaccine is free for people in at-risk groups. This winter, the message is clear: get vaccinated against the flu and COVID-19. You will reduce infections, avoid complications, and help keep the healthcare system strong. Vaccination is available at Primary Care Centers (CAPs) and participating pharmacies. To schedule an appointment, you can do so through My Health on the website. citasalud.gencat.cat or directly in the reference CAP.