By Alec Go
The Department of Health (DOH) on Saturday (Oct. 23) said hospital vaccination sites for children are guaranteed safe, following former Health Secretary Janette Garin’s claim on the exposure of minors with comorbidities in a hospital setting.
DOH Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said safe spaces were selected in hospitals, which were inspected before they were issued the green light to vaccinate minors.
“The government will not expose our children to any harm. Lagi po iyan iyong safety po ay primary concern natin specifically para sa ating mga kabataan,” she said.
DOH Secretary Francisco Duque III earlier said in the Oct. 4 Palace briefing that the use of hospitals for the pediatric vaccination rollout will ensure that adverse effects are immediately attended to.
The national government began the initial rollout of minors’ vaccination on Oct. 15, covering those ages 15 to 17 years-old with comorbidities in Metro Manila. The second phase started on Oct. 22 with more participating facilities.
Read more: Pediatric vaccination 2nd phase starts with more venues
The DOH reported that 8,639 children with comorbidities have been vaccinated since the rollout. Four experienced reactions related to allergies and anxiety.
The DOH has been discussing the possible expansion of the pilot implementation in the coming weeks.
“I think parents have recognized the value of the vaccines. Kaya kapag tiningnan natin, ang taas na po ng nababakunahan natin dito sa mga batang may comorbidities,” Vergeire said.
Meanwhile, studies are underway on vaccinating minors younger than 12 years of age which will need a new emergency use authorization (EUA). -rir
Watch the full interview here:
