As a pertussis outbreak spreads across several regions, medical experts urged the Department of Health (DOH) to accelerate the early rollout of free elderly flu vaccines in May.

In a statement on Saturday, April 13, the Raising Awareness on Influenza to Support Elderlies (RAISE) Coalition said that this preemptive measure aims to curb potential outbreaks before the expected peak incidence between June and November.

Infectious disease expert and RAISE Coalition lead convenor Rontgene Solante stressed the importance of “early preparation” in mitigating the impact of vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs).

“The DOH must act now and expedite the release of flu vaccines to the public before the peak incidence to safeguard the elderly from severe complications like pneumonia,” Solante added.

Meanwhile, RAISE Coalition co-convenor Lulu Bravo also said it is "crucial to vaccinate all seniors, similar to the proactive measures implemented during the Covid-19 pandemic.”

The Coalition highlighted that under the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010, the DOH was mandated to provide free vaccination against the influenza virus and pneumococcal disease for indigent senior citizens.

However, advocacy groups and various legislators are pushing for broader coverage to include all senior citizens nationwide.

With this, experts urged senior citizens to proactively inquire at their health centers about their free flu vaccinations.

In addition to the urgent need for flu vaccines, experts underscored the importance of tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (Tdap) vaccination for the elderly population amidst the outbreak, extending its importance beyond infants and children.

The Coalition said that vaccination not only reduces potential transmission but also serves as a “protective measure” for households and the wider community.

Moreover, it revealed that with a 45 percent surge in cases of influenza-like illnesses (ILI) over the past year, the Philippines faces a significant threat, particularly among senior citizens who are more susceptible to complications like heart attacks and pneumonia upon contracting the flu virus.

Related to this, a total of 5682 pertussis cases have emerged across communities, further emphasizing the urgent need for vaccination efforts.

As a multi-sectoral group working alongside medical societies, the Coalition emphasized the government's critical role in prioritizing timely response and vaccination programs for the elderly population.

It noted that ensuring access to preventive healthcare, including vaccination, is not only essential but also a fundamental right crucial for safeguarding their well-being and reducing the burden of VPDs.