DOH to vaccinate 10-M children vs. polio, measles
The Department of Health (DOH) is targeting to vaccinate 10 million children against polio and measles.
The DOH on Friday launched the Phase II of the nationwide Measles Rubella and Oral Polio Vaccine Supplemental Immunization Activity (MR-OPV SIA).
It will be conducted from February 1 to 28 in the Visayas regions, National Capital Region, Central Luzon and Calabarzon, the DOH said.
"It aims to vaccinate 5.1 million nine to 59 months old children for the Measles Rubella vaccine and 4.8 million children zero to 59 months old for Oral Polio vaccine," the Health department said.
The DOH urged parents to bring their children to the health centers to avail the vaccines.
“We highly encourage parents and guardians to have their children immunized. The measles, rubella, and oral polio vaccines are guaranteed to be safe, effective, and free," said Health Secretary Francisco Duque III.
“Vaccination saves lives and prevents disabilities from such diseases. These vaccines can give our vulnerable children a good start at life so they can grow into healthy and productive adults. Above all, no child should be left behind,” he added.
The World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF) expressed its support to the DOH program.
“We can only halt an impending measles outbreak and stop the spread of polio if we vaccinate every eligible child. This is challenging but is necessary for the protection of our children. WHO and other partners continue to support the DOH and our frontline workers and local governments in addressing these multiple health threats,” said WHO Philippines Representative Dr. Rabindra Abeyasinghe.
"We at UNICEF remain committed in supporting DOH, as well as the national government and local government units, in ensuring that every child in the Philippines is vaccinated. Amid the challenges of COVID-19, it is even more critical to reach the most vulnerable children and give them the opportunity to grow healthy and reach their full potential," said UNICEF Philippines Representative Oyunsaikhan Dendevnorov.