Sorsogon city: The Department of Health-Center for Health Development (DOH-CHD) Bicol has initiated the Ligtas Tigdas Measles-Rubella Supplemental Immunization Activity (MR SIA), calling on parents and local government units to back a comprehensive vaccination campaign aimed at shielding children from measles and rubella across the region.
According to Philippines News Agency, the campaign, which was ceremonially launched in Sorsogon City, is underscored by DOH-CHD Bicol Assistant Regional Director Dr. Joel Buenaventura's assertion that immunization is the most effective defense against vaccine-preventable diseases. He emphasized the community-wide protection afforded by vaccinating children.
The initiative targets the immunization of children aged 6 to 59 months who have missed routine vaccinations, with a goal of achieving 95 percent coverage among the 647,092 eligible children in the region to foster herd immunity. Despite the ceremonial start, widespread vaccination efforts will commence on August 10, involving rural health units, municipal and city health offices, and barangay health centers throughout Bicol.
Buenaventura highlighted the crucial role of local chief executives as leaders of Local Immunization Task Forces, advocating for a collective approach involving all sectors of society to ensure successful immunization activities. Local ordinances also support the campaign by providing dedicated funding and ensuring the continuity of vaccination programs.
The DOH has assured the public of a steady vaccine supply, emphasizing that the vaccination is free of charge. Additionally, DOH Bicol National Immunization Program Regional Medical Program Coordinator Gisela Joyce Claveron has guaranteed strict safety measures during the vaccination process. Vaccines will be administered only at fixed sites to maintain their quality, given their sensitivity to heat and light.
Local government units will identify children in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs) to facilitate their access to the nearest vaccination sites. Claveron assured that all vaccinations would be meticulously documented, with trained medical personnel on hand to ensure the safety of each child. She stressed the importance of providing parents with accurate information to address vaccine-related concerns.
The MR SIA is part of the DOH's broader efforts to eliminate measles and rubella by reaching under-vaccinated children and bolstering community protection against these diseases.
