Strengthening childhood vaccination coverage: experience report of an extension project in the Guamá District, Belém-PA

Abstract

Childhood vaccination is essential to prevent diseases and strengthen the health system, playing a crucial role in reducing child mortality and socioeconomic development. Despite the positive impact, Brazil faces challenges related to vaccination adherence, such as cultural barriers and misinformation. This study reports the experience of the university extension project “Strengthening vaccination coverage for children aged 0 to 11 years in the administrative district of Guamá in Belém do Pará”, which aimed to promote awareness about the importance of immunization. The methodology adopted included educational activities, such as lectures, distribution of informative materials, playful dynamics and home visits, involving adults and children. The results showed that the interactive strategies were effective, especially with children, contributing to the reduction of myths and increasing understanding about vaccination. The partnership between the university, the community and health agents was essential to expand the impact of the project, strengthening vaccination coverage and promoting a more welcoming environment for vaccination adherence. It is concluded that university extension plays a fundamental role in promoting public health, being an important tool for disseminating knowledge and reflection on the behavior of parents and/or guardians in relation to childhood vaccination, of the child population itself, an area where nursing plays a fundamental role, in addition to contributing to the academic and professional training of the student.