Vaccinate Now

promotion of immunization of the population in a territory of social vulnerability

Abstract

Introduction: Vaccine hesitancy has been increasing among the Brazilian population since 2016, representing a challenge to adherence to the National Immunization Program. That said, it is essential to implement health actions to disseminate reliable information about immunization and encourage compliance with the vaccination schedule. Therefore, the extension project “Vacina Já” was developed, linked to a private academic institution in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais. Objective: Report the experience of 15 health science students in the conception, planning, and execution of educational activities to raise awareness about the importance of vaccination, carried out in the waiting room of a Primary Health Care Unit in Belo Horizonte. Experience Report: The students were organized into four groups responsible for designing and conducting the educational activities, with a defined schedule and target audience. The first meeting was dedicated to recognizing the territory and understanding the users’ profiles. Subsequently, activities such as discussions on myths and facts about vaccination, question-based games on the historical impact of vaccines, a quiz on vaccine hesitancy, active listening sessions, guidance on misinformation, a number-based game, and an interactive awareness panel were conducted. The project was also presented at the International Symposium of Health Extension. Conclusion: The extension activities, based on playful and participatory methodologies, showcased a significant impact on users’ awareness of vaccination importance, contributing to addressing vaccine hesitancy and providing students with a meaningful experience of community engagement and the development of communication and health promotion skills.