The Philippines has administered 2,369,216 COVID-19 vaccines in the second round of three-day national vaccination days despite the challenge posed by Typhoon Odette.
Data from the National Vaccination Operations Center (NVOC) show that 1,065,649 doses were administered on Dec. 15, 759,028 on Dec. 16, and 544,539 on Dec. 17.
This is 31% of the seven million jab target for the event. Several regions have postponed their rollout due to Typhoon Odette.
“In terms of accomplishment, kahapon 39% sa ating mga lokal na pamahalaan hindi nag-submit ng report. Sa Central Visayas, walang naganap na bakunahan because they were greatly affected,” NVOC chairperson Myrna Cabotaje said.
DOH USec. Cabotaje: We have a total of 2.3-M doses, mga 31% ‘yan ng ating total target na 7-M. pic.twitter.com/IiA6Rkky0B
— PTVph (@PTVph) December 18, 2021
The Department of Health (DOH) is identifying the conditions of vaccines in areas affected by the typhoon as communication lines remain down in several provinces.
“We may have some vaccines that have been compromised because of power outages. While we have been prepared, baka sa katagalan tapos ‘yung problema ng fuel, etc,” she said.
The NVOC has also learned of the accident involving a vehicle transporting Moderna COVID-19 vaccines in Region 4A.
The official said the delivery of vaccines and other ancillaries was also challenged due to flight cancellations.
“Also habang nandoon na ang mga bakuna sa ating hubs, ‘yung ating mga regional offices, ang pag-transport naman sa mga maalon na lugar kagaya ng 4B, Region 6,” she said.
Nonetheless, cold chain managers have been prepared on how to maintain the temperature requirement of vaccines amid the prevailing widespread brownout.
“Just in case sa pag-monitor nila 4 times a day ay nagfa-fluctuate na, hindi ma-maintain ang temperature, ang aming directive sa kanila ibakuna na kung puwedeng ibakuna ang mga ‘yan,” she said.
The continuation of the Bayanihan Bakunahan will be on Dec. 20 to 22, and local government units can decide whether to push through with the rollout or prioritize relief efforts.
Meanwhile, the DOH reiterated that vaccines remain an effective protection versus the Omicron variant. The government has yet to discuss the administration of fourth doses.
“Wala pa tayong nasa horizon na fourth shot, pero hindi malayo ‘yan kasi alam naman natin na maraming pag-aaral. Titingnan natin sa ibang bansa kung ano nang nangyayari,” Cabotaje said. – Report from Mark Fetalco/AG-rir
