“Before the pandemic began, Peru maintained a vaccination coverage higher than 90%, however, due to the mandatory confinement, the fear of contagion and the priority that at that time was given to the care of coronavirus cases, this coverage fell to 40% on average ”, says Dr. Fátima Ortega, pulmonologist at our clinic.

What is pneumococcus?

It is a bacterium that can cause several infections and serious invasive diseases such as pneumonia, meningitis, bacteremia, among others.

What are its symptoms?

Fever, cough, earache, shortness of breath, headache.

How does the pneumococcal vaccine work?

The vaccine generates antibodies preventing the entry of the bacteria through the nasopharyngeal route. At approximately 3 weeks, the greatest immune response is reached.

What is influenza?

Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and, in some cases, the lungs.

What are its symptoms?

Fever, cough, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath

How does the flu vaccine work?

The influenza vaccine causes antibodies to develop approximately 2 weeks post vaccination. These provide protection against infections by circulating influenza viruses.

Remember:

Although it is true that the pneumococcal and influenza vaccines do not protect against the coronavirus, they do prevent you from suffering major complications from superinfection of any of these diseases, in case you have contracted COVID-19.

Dra. Fátima Ortega
Pulmonologist at Clínica Ricardo Palma