The number of fully vaccinated individuals in Muntinlupa has reached nearly 476,000 while booster dose recipients totaled more than 103,000.

Data from the City Health Office as of March 23 showed that 475,903 individuals have been fully vaccinated in Muntinlupa or 108 percent of the target population of 442,517.

The total target population is equivalent to 80 percent of the estimated total population of 553,146 based on Department of Health (DOH) projections.

In addition, the number of persons who received their booster shots reached 103,621 or 22 percent of the fully vaccinated individuals.

Among the 12 to 17 years old in Muntinlupa, 37,596 are now fully vaccinated or 68 percent of the estimated total population of 55,391 for the age group. In addition, 40,134 have received their first dose or 72 percent of the total population of 12 to 17 years old.

For the five to 11 age group, 7,010 are now fully vaccinated or 10.3 percent of the total population of 68,198. Of the total population, 11,121 have been given the first dose of the Covid-19 vaccine or 16 percent.

During the “Laging Handa” public briefing on March 23, Dr. Niña Gloriani, Vaccine Expert Panel chairperson, was asked about the possibility of giving booster shots to five to 11 and 12 to 17 years old.

She said younger people have stronger immune responses.

“So, perhaps, it will take time before they need a booster. But we are studying it and especially for the children who are immunocompromised, those who are ill. So they can be considered. Actually in other countries, the immunocompromised children are also considered but not for the general population because generally their immunity is good. That should last longer than those who are older and have other problems. So not yet but it is being studied,” she said.