The Department of Health Center for Health Development in the Ilocos Region (DOH-CHD-1) has recorded 1.3 million individuals who have received the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) booster shots as of Oct. 15.

Based on the DOH-CHD-1 data, the number is 34 percent of the target population in the region.

There are now 3.8 million fully vaccinated individuals in the region or 89 percent coverage of the total target population, while some 450,547 senior citizens are fully vaccinated.

The DOH has launched mall vaccinations to provide an alternative site for vaccinees and vulnerable individuals who were unable to receive their Covid-19 jabs due to various reasons.

The malls have been providing a designated vaccination area where shoppers and customers can visit and avail of the Covid-19 vaccine anytime, including weekends.

DOH-CHD-1 regional director Paula Paz Sydiongco said apart from mall vaccinations and information drive on Covid-19, local government units are doing house-to-house visits and also giving away incentives, such as free groceries and packs of rice for senior citizens who avail of the booster doses.

“We have to complete our booster shots so that we can be fully protected from the virus. Kung protektado tayo, protektado rin ang ating pamilya (If we are protected, then our families are also protected),” she said in a statement.

Sydiongco said vaccines are an essential tool in the fight against the virus as these are highly effective and proven to save lives.

Meanwhile, the average number of Covid-19 daily cases in the region is now 46.

There are 295 out of the 1,351 non-intensive care units (ICU) beds and 45 out of 215 ICU beds being utilized, while eight of the new cases are confirmed under severe and critical admissions. (PNA)