This week Brazil begins a massive inoculation drive to thwart the influenza virus A(H1N1). Internet will, for the first time ever, play a role in the country's health campaign. Brazil's Health Minister José Gomes Temporão says the goal is to vaccinate up to 90 million people - approximately half of the country's population.
 
According to official figures, some 2,105 people in Brazil have died from the virus so far [Flu Statistics - ext. website], more than in any other country in the world.
 
The campaign is targeting eight high-risk groups. Health workers and indigenous groups will be inoculated by 21 March. Starting on 22 March, the campaign will go on to focus on pregnant women, people with chronic diseases and children between six months and two years of age. The third phase will include the elderly, and adults between 20 and 29 years of age, and those between 30 and 39.
 
WHO advice
The eight priority groups were chosen on the basis of advice from the World Health Organisation, data collected from the first wave of the pandemic in Brazil in 2009, and information collected from other countries.
 
The authorities are launching a major campaign on television. Moreover, public officials will distribute 100,000 vaccination calendars and a million folders. The Health Ministry has set up a special website which provides people with information on where and when they can receive vaccinations.