More than 2,400 minors with comorbidity have already received the first dose of COVID-19 vaccines, according to the Department of Health.
It will be recalled that the COVID-19 vaccination for those aged 12 to 17 with comorbidity or disease was opened on Friday in some hospitals in Metro Manila.
There were four reported adverse events following immunization, but they were only mild and were resolved immediately, said Health spokesperson Maria Rosario Vergeire.
“Isang bata na nagkaroon ng pagtaas ng presyon, but after 2 hours, they were able to manage it… Mayroon ding isang nagkaroon ng allergic reaction but it was managed and na-resolve din ‘yong allergies. Tapos may 2 stress-related sa immunization,” said Vergeire.
According to Vergeire, although the implementation of the several-day pediatric COVID-19 vaccination has been successful, things can still be improved, such as encouraging children with comorbidity and their parents to get vaccinated.
Phase 2 of the pediatric COVID-19 vaccination is scheduled to begin on Friday, where the vaccination will also be opened in selected hospitals in every local government unit (LGU) in Metro Manila.
“Sa Biyernes na po magsisimula ang phase 2 ng ating pediatric vaccination pilot dito po sa National Capital Region… Magdaragdag po ng 13 additional local hospitals,” said Interior Undersecretary Jonathan Malaya.
Over 2,400 minors with comorbidities vaccinated vs. COVID-19
Parents who want to vaccinate their children who are qualified should contact their LGU and bring a medical certificate proof of the child’s comorbidity and clearance to be vaccinated.
24.3 million Filipinos have been fully vaccinated, 31.5 percent of the target of 77 million.
According to the DOH, preparations are also underway to provide additional vaccine doses to immunocompromised senior citizens and health workers who have completed the vaccine.
But he said the Food and Drug Administration must first amend the emergency use authorization of vaccines in the country before it can be implemented.
Meanwhile, it was found that the trend of COVID-19 cases in all island groups in the country is dropping, based on data released by the Department of Health (DOH).
The COVID-19 classification of all regions in the country except the Zamboanga Peninsula is also at moderate or low risk.
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