Protecting Essential Workers: A Proactive approach to Public Health

In a concerted effort to safeguard the health of its workforce, the Chilean Construction Chamber (CCHC) Magallanes has partnered with CCHC Safety Mutual, the Magallanes Health Seremi, and the Magallanes health Service to launch a comprehensive influenza vaccination campaign. this initiative aims to provide on-site vaccinations for construction workers and their families across the Magallanes region, minimizing disruption and maximizing participation.

The campaign kicked off at the Los Flamencos 1 construction site,marking the beginning of a series of mass vaccination operations targeting the construction sector. Key figures, including Francisca Sanfuentes, Seremi de Salud; Sergio Huepe, vice president of CCHC Magallanes; Verónica Yáñez, Director of Health Service; Ricardo Contreras, director of the Clinical hospital of Magallanes; Ximena Ojeda, Chief Nurse at Mutual de Security CCHC; and representatives from APS Punta Arenas and Constructora Salfa, were present to demonstrate their support.

Reaching the Unreached: Bringing Vaccines to the Worksite

The primary objective of this campaign is to immunize over a thousand individuals across Punta Arenas,Puerto Natales,and Porvenir. The CCHC Magallanes has meticulously planned the logistics to administer vaccinations directly at construction sites, ensuring accessibility for all workers. This approach is particularly crucial for those who may face challenges accessing traditional healthcare facilities due to work schedules or geographical constraints.

We are very happy with the beginning of this campaign, wich is of grate importance to the region, for all our construction workers and their families. Our goal is to achieve an immunization coverage against the influenza of more than a thousand people in the three cities.

Sergio Huepe, vice president of CCHC Magallanes

Addressing vulnerability: Why Construction Workers are a Priority

Construction workers are considered a high-risk group due to the nature of their work, which often involves prolonged exposure to the elements. In the magallanes region, this means contending with harsh weather conditions, including low temperatures and strong winds, which can increase susceptibility to respiratory illnesses like influenza.By prioritizing this demographic, the health authorities aim to mitigate the potential impact of seasonal outbreaks.

We are initiating this part of the vaccination strategy that is also very critically important, aimed at construction workers, which are part of the prioritized groups as essential workers, also attending that they are in the open air and low temperatures, which gives them greater vulnerability.

Francisca Sanfuentes, Seremi de Salud

As of late March 2025, the Magallanes region has achieved nearly 22% vaccination coverage, and health officials are optimistic about reaching their target of 85%. This proactive approach aligns with broader public health strategies aimed at preventing the spread of infectious diseases and protecting vulnerable populations.

Expanding Access: Mobile Vaccination Units and COVID-19 Integration

Along with on-site vaccinations, the Magallanes Health Service is deploying mobile vaccination units to reach even more communities. Starting in April, these units will travel to various locations throughout the region, offering convenient access to influenza and COVID-19 vaccines. This integrated approach streamlines the vaccination process and ensures that individuals can receive comprehensive protection against multiple respiratory threats.

The call is precisely to protect itself in a timely manner… it is also important to emphasize that the health service has made an effort this year to enable a mobile vaccination… where we are going to move to different parts of the city and also to other locations to promote access to the timely vaccination of influenza and also, to emphasize that we are simultaneously vaccinating COVID-19.

verónica Yáñez, Director of the Magallanes Health Service

Streamlined registration: How Construction Companies Can Participate

CCHC Magallanes members can request on-site vaccination services by completing a form with the necessary information for interested workers and their family members over 18. Several construction companies have already registered, and numerous vaccination operations are scheduled in Punta Arenas, Puerto Natales, and Porvenir in the coming days. This streamlined process ensures that companies can easily participate in the campaign and protect their workforce.

Worker Testimonials: A Positive Response to On-Site vaccinations

Construction workers have expressed their appreciation for the convenience and accessibility of the on-site vaccination program.

It is an excellent initiative because it saves us time and is much more comfortable for us as workers than vaccination comes directly to work. In addition, it allows us to protect ourselves and our families, avoiding possible infections.

Claudio Bustamante, teacher Andamiero

It is a great initiative, a relief for us as workers. when working outdoors and cold,we are more exposed to get sick,and with the vaccine we avoid that.

Marisa Sánchez, worker in the work condominium Los Flamenco 1