Dra. Julie Gonzalez, Las Piñas CHO head, administers an anti-flu vaccine to a city resident/Photo from RAISE Coalition
The Las Piñas City government and the Raising Awareness on Influenza to Support Elderlies (RAISE) coalition conducted free anti-flu vaccination to around 730 senior citizens in the city on Tuesday, Oct. 10.
Mayor Imelda Aguilar said the free anti-flu vaccination was held at the Verdant covered court.
Aguilar said the city government and RAISE coalition have joined forces to conduct the free vaccination to protect them from flu which ranked as one of the top causes of mortality among senior citizens.
The mayor emphasized the city government’s commitment to provide free and safe vaccines to city residents.
Aguilar said the initiative aligns well with the legacy of the late Mayor Nene Aguilar, under whose tenure saw the formulation of several healthcare projects aimed at enhancing the well-being of Las Piñas’ residents.
Dr. Lulu Bravo, RAISE co-convenor and PFV Executive Director, emphasized the need to provide these free vaccinations for all senior citizens.
In his message, Health Secretary Dr. Ted Herbosa showed his support for the RAISE Coalition, saying, “flu vaccination is not just a medical practice, it’s an act of solidarity, compassion, and responsibility toward our community members, especially the most vulnerable among us.”
Dr. Juliana Gonzales, City Health Officer of Las Piñas City, noted the additional complications that senior citizens are vulnerable to when getting sick.
Gonzalez explained that senior citizens suffering from flu may experience other complications.
She highlighted the significance of the flu vaccination in mitigating the risks associated with influenza and its potential to exacerbate existing health conditions among senior citizens.
She said that with the support of the Philippine Foundation for Flu Vaccination and the RAISE coalition, the program is set to continue in the coming years, fostering a culture of preventive healthcare in Las Piñas.