Mother and child at vaccination clinic

Mother and child at a vaccination clinic: the importance of childhood immunization in Brazil, with data on vaccine coverage and the role of SUS.

About this subject

Childhood vaccination is one of the most effective public health strategies in Brazil. The National Immunization Program (PNI), created in 1973, offers free vaccines for children from birth. The image shows a mother accompanying her son at a vaccination clinic, a common scene in health posts and national campaigns. Brazil has a robust vaccination schedule, including vaccines such as BCG, pentavalent, polio, and MMR, which have drastically reduced the incidence of diseases like measles, rubella, and polio.

Vaccination coverage in the country, however, faces challenges. Data from the Ministry of Health indicate that in 2022, coverage for the pentavalent vaccine was about 77%, below the 95% target. This decline is associated with the resurgence of controlled diseases, such as measles in 2018. The World Health Organization (WHO) highlights that vaccination prevents 2 to 3 million deaths globally each year. In Brazil, SUS guarantees universal access, but vaccine hesitancy and misinformation are barriers.

The mother-child relationship during vaccination is crucial for adherence. Studies show that parental accompaniment reduces the child's anxiety and increases trust in the process. Pediatrician Ana Escobar, in an interview with Fiocruz, emphasizes that "the mother's presence is a factor of emotional protection." Additionally, the vaccination card is a mandatory document for school enrollment, reinforcing the importance of immunization.

Interestingly, Brazil was a pioneer in eliminating polio in 1994, thanks to mass vaccination campaigns. The image symbolizes this ongoing effort to protect childhood. The clinic depicted may be part of a basic health unit, where nurses and technicians apply vaccines following strict conservation protocols, such as maintaining the cold chain.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which vaccines are mandatory for children in Brazil?

The basic childhood vaccination schedule includes BCG, hepatitis B, pentavalent, polio, rotavirus, pneumococcal, meningococcal C, yellow fever, MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), and DTP (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis). Mandatory status is regulated by the National Immunization Program.

Why has vaccination coverage declined in Brazil?

The decline is associated with misinformation about vaccines, anti-vaccine movements, lack of access in remote areas, and the COVID-19 pandemic, which interrupted campaigns. In 2022, Brazil recorded the worst coverage in 30 years.

How can I check if my child's vaccination record is up to date?

You can check the card at any Basic Health Unit (UBS) or via the ConecteSUS app, which shows the vaccination history. Keeping the document updated is important for school enrollment and travel.