Public Health Boost for campos Novos: New RSV Vaccine & Expanded Condom Access
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Residents of Campos novos and surrounding areas now have access to critical public health resources through the Unified Health System (SUS), including a new vaccine to protect infants and a wider range of free condom options.
This week marked the arrival of two meaningful advancements aimed at bolstering preventative healthcare across different life stages. The initiatives – a vaccine against Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) for pregnant women and the free distribution of textured condoms – underscore the SUS’s commitment to safeguarding the health of the community.
Protecting Newborns with RSV immunization
A new vaccine offering protection against Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), the leading cause of bronchiolitis in newborns, is now available in Campos Novos as part of a nationwide rollout. The immunization is offered free of charge and is integrated into the SUS vaccination schedule.
the campaign specifically targets pregnant women beginning at the 28th week of gestation. This timing is crucial, as vaccination allows the mother to develop antibodies that are than passed to the baby in utero, providing vital protection during the first few months of life – a period when bronchiolitis is most severe and frequently leads to hospitalization.
The Ministry of Health has procured 1.8 million doses,with initial distribution beginning in december. According to a health official, the doses are being rapidly deployed to state and municipal health units for immediate management, eliminating the need for prior appointments.
RSV accounts for approximately 75% of bronchiolitis cases and 40% of pneumonia diagnoses in children under two years of age.Interested pregnant individuals are encouraged to visit vaccination centers at UBSs Pam, Aparecida, and Nossa Senhora de Lourdes.These locations also offer opportunities to update other essential vaccinations, such as influenza and Tdap.
Expanding Access to sexual Health Resources
Alongside the new vaccine, Campos Novos is also expanding access to sexual health resources through the free distribution of textured and thinner condoms via the SUS.
This initiative is a key component of the Ministry of Health’s strategy to promote condom use, offering more appealing options – including textured and more sensitive models – at no cost. Residents can obtain these condoms without presenting identification or facing any quantity limits at local UBSs.
The expanded availability coincides with Red December, a month dedicated to raising awareness about and preventing HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). As Karina Tombini, an Epidemiological Surveillance nurse, stated, the initiative “strengthens the combined prevention strategy, which includes the use of condoms, testing and information on sexual and reproductive health.”
Condoms remain highly effective in preventing the transmission of HIV, syphilis, and viral hepatitis.
A Commitment to Preventative Care
The availability of a greater variety of condoms,including textured options,is expected to encourage more frequent and consistent use among the sexually active population. Concurrently,the RSV vaccine provides a new layer of protection for newborns,empowering pregnant women to safeguard their babies’ health.
These two actions collectively reaffirm the SUS’s dedication to promoting preventative health for families, encompassing both prenatal care and sexual and reproductive wellbeing.
For further information, residents are encouraged to contact their local Basic Health Unit or reach Epidemiological Surveillance at (49) 98811.0301.
Report published in Jornal O Celeiro, Edition 1909 of December 18, 2025.
