Canary Islands Immunization Program Update

The Canary Islands have introduced a comprehensive update to their immunization program, reflecting new scientific insights and changing epidemiological trends.

Key Changes

• Booster Shot for Adolescents
  • Added a booster dose of the Tdap vaccine at age 14 to protect against whooping cough—a disease that remains a public health concern due to young individuals acting as reservoirs during outbreaks.
• HPV Vaccination Strategy
  • Now involves a single dose for all 12-year-olds.
  • Extension of doses to people up to age 45, especially targeting high-risk groups.
  • Marking a move toward more streamlined and cost-effective protection.
• Other Notable Vaccine Updates
  • The pneumococcal vaccine is now available to all adults over 65 without risk factors, aiming to reduce severe infections in this vulnerable group.
  • The meningococcal vaccine will now be universally offered to under-19s.
• Special Attention to Vulnerable Populations
  • Pregnant women will receive a dose of Tdap at week 27.
  • Enhanced focus on at-risk adults and residents in long-term care.
  • Starting fall 2026, the RSV vaccine will be offered to seniors over 70 and chronically ill adults, reflecting global efforts to combat severe respiratory infections.

Overall Goals

• To bolster immunity at all ages.
• To reduce disease burden.
• To adapt to ongoing scientific advances.

Overall, these changes aim to bolster immunity at all ages, reduce disease burden, and adapt to ongoing scientific advances—signaling a proactive move by Canary health authorities to protect public health amid evolving infectious disease challenges.