Within the framework of Vaccination Week in the Americas, the Ministry of Health and the Cali Zoo organized the Second National Vaccination Day, with support from the Saniss Awards.

The objective of the event was to promote childhood vaccination with an innovative and fun approach.

The initiative not only sought to strengthen immunization coverage in the city, but also to promote a more comprehensive vision of public health, in which a positive emotional experience is a key component to improving early health service experiences among children and adolescents.

The day was designed to transform vaccination processes into positive memories. Through a creative strategy, the figure of “a guardian friend” was introduced, an animal character that accompanies the recipient as they each vaccine, helping to reduce fear and generate a more friendly experience for children.

The proposal, titled “A hug from a friend with each vaccine,” uses an otter as a symbol of tenderness, care, and emotional protection.

Beyond a symbolic action, this wager responds to scientific evidence. Studies, such as the “Teddy Bear Hospital” method, have shown that children who interact with playful elements during medical processes have:

• Less anxiety
• Less anticipatory distress
• Greater willingness to receive health care

With this intervention, Saniss Awards reaffirms its commitment to promoting initiatives that integrate creativity, strategy, and human sensitivity, so as to generate a real impact on public health. The day at the Cali Zoo is an example of how ideas can transcend communication and become transformative experiences that strengthen well-being starting in childhood.