Manila: Over the first two days of the measles-rubella supplemental immunization activity (MR-SIA), a total of 7,407 children between the ages of 6 to 59 months received vaccinations in Antique.
According to Philippines News Agency, Irene Duldoco, Health Education and Promotion Officer II at the Antique Integrated Provincial Health Office (IPHO), stated on Wednesday that the initiative aims to vaccinate 56,730 eligible children by the end of the campaign, which runs until August 28, 2026. Duldoco explained that municipal health officers across Antique's 18 municipalities have organized vaccination teams to reach children in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDA).
Duldoco emphasized the importance of prioritizing GIDAs, especially when weather conditions are favorable. She noted the challenges posed by inclement weather in Antique, which necessitates prioritizing children in GIDAs during periods of fair weather, as those in lowland areas are more easily accessible.
The Department of Health (DOH) has ensured that Antique is supplied with sufficient vaccines and additional nursing staff, according to Duldoco. She advised parents not to panic if their children experience fever or other adverse reactions following vaccination, and to seek medical consultation if symptoms persist for more than three days.
The IPHO is actively promoting support for the immunization drive, particularly after a single case of measles was reported in the Municipality of San Jose de Buenavista in March. Duldoco expressed concern over the highly contagious nature of measles and highlighted the importance of the vaccination campaign.
