**Border Health Initiative: Winter Vaccination Campaign to Be Promoted at Crossing Points**
A groundbreaking health initiative will see winter vaccination efforts coordinated on both sides of the U.S.-Mexico border. This binational vaccination campaign aims to provide essential vaccines at strategic border crossing points, ensuring the health of communities that frequently traverse the border. According to Daniel Aceves Villagrán, head of the National Center for Child and Adolescent Health, the federally-backed campaign has been ongoing since October 15, 2024, and will continue until March 28, 2025.
In partnership with the Baja California government, vaccines have been distributed to local facilities, ensuring accessibility. Néstor Saúl Hernández Milán, Deputy Director of Health, revealed that over 7,000 doses have been administered nationally, and support from the federal government is available should shortages arise in Baja California.
Strategic vaccination points will be established, starting with Otay Mesa, and will rotate locations and schedules. Vaccinations will also be available in healthcare units and select shopping centers, with updates shared on social media by the Baja California Health Department.
Elizabeth Hernández, San Diego County’s Public Health Director, emphasized the campaign’s binational nature due to the fluid movement between Tijuana and San Diego, highlighting the push for influenza and COVID-19 vaccinations.
In the U.S., services will be available at clinics like Vista Community Clinic and Neighborhood Health Care, with additional support from the Mexican Consulate.
Vaccination for deportees is also ensured through shelters, reinforcing the constitutional right to health services in Mexico, as stated by Hernández Milán.
The program received support from prominent health organizations and officials, including Adrian Tavárez from the Pan American Health Organization, and Nayeli Altamirano from the Mexican Health Promotion and Prevention Department.
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**Secondary Article: Increased Border Surveillance Influences Health Campaign**
Recent developments at the U.S.-Mexico border, including tightened immigration policies, have influenced cross-border health strategies. Increased deportations could arise due to policy changes with the new U.S. administration, impacting individuals returning to Mexico who may be at risk of health issues due to the displacement.
The binational vaccination campaign aims to address these health concerns, not only for current residents but also for recent deportees. The integration of healthcare services at border crossings seeks to reduce health vulnerabilities for transient populations during the flu season.
Health authorities stress the importance of cooperation between nations in managing public health effectively, reflecting the need for cross-border support and shared resources to secure healthy communities on both sides.
With evolving border dynamics, the coordination between Mexico and the U.S. continues to be crucial in maintaining public health and accessibility to vaccinations during winter months. This collaboration underscores the ethos that “health knows no borders.”