The Department of Health (DOH) Western Visayas called on local government units (LGUs) in the region to conduct community-based immunization drives to boost vaccination rates and protect vulnerable sectors, including senior citizens, persons with disabilities, pregnant women, and children.
Immunization Program Medical Coordinator of DOH-Western Visayas Dr. Jose Martin Atienza made the appeal during the National Immunization Activity held in Santa Barbara, Iloilo.
He emphasized that all vaccines under DOH immunization programs are readily available at local health centers, encouraging LGUs to utilize these resources effectively.
“LGUs have the capacity to organize activities like this. We strongly recommend conducting these initiatives because they allow us to spread awareness about the importance of vaccination and address misconceptions about vaccines,” Atienza said.
The national immunization activity offered vaccines against influenza, pneumonia, tetanus-diphtheria, and other diseases as part of routine immunization to those listed in the vulnerable sector.
Santa Barbara was chosen for this event as it has been identified as an area requiring improved vaccination coverage.
The program was a collaborative effort between the DOH, the Department of Education (DepEd), the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and the Santa Barbara LGU.
Residents expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to receive free vaccinations.
“I really wanted to avail myself of the vaccine so I could be protected, especially at my age. I thank the DOH for bringing this program to us,” said 63-year-old Claudio Serisola.
Student Angelyn Margarrette Somcio also shared her enthusiasm: “I got vaccinated to protect myself against viruses and diseases. I encourage my fellow students and others to do the same for their safety.”
Present at the event were DOH Undersecretary Dr. Mary Ann Palemo-Maestral, DOH-Western Visayas Director Dr. Adriano P. Suba-an, DILG-Western Visayas Director Juan Joviam Ingeniero, Santa Barbara Mayor Dr. Dennis Superficial, and other representatives from various agencies.
All stakeholders voiced their strong support for the immunization program.
With these initiatives, the DOH-6 aims to improve vaccination coverage across Western Visayas, ensuring better health outcomes for all, particularly the most vulnerable members of the community.
