After the onslaught of Typhoons Quinta, Rolly, and Ulysses in Bicol, the Measles-Rubella and Oral Polio Vaccine Supplemental Immunization Activity (MR OPV SIA) has pushed through in most areas of the region.
As per DOH-Bicol report on Monday, at least 376,365 or 61 percent of eligible children have been given vaccination against measles and rubella, and 432,469 or 60 percent the bivalent oral polio vaccine.
The Department of Health Center for Health Development (DOH CHD) in Bicol is encouraging parents to participate in the MR OPV SIA to provide their children additional protection against vaccine-preventable diseases, such as measles, polio, and rubella.
Dr. Rita Mae Ang-Bon, head of the DOH CHD-Bicol Family Health Cluster, in a statement said “Malaki ang tiwala ng aming pamilya sa mga health services ng DOH, mula sa deworming, micronutrient supplementation, oral health at maging sa immunization. (Our family trusts health services that are given by DOH, from deworming, micronutrient supplementation, oral health and even immunization)”.
Ang-Bon added that all the vaccines of her daughter were availed from the local health center.
Jocelyn Atos-Arango of Legazpi City, in an interview, said she availed of additional booster shots for her son to ensure his safety and health protection from viral illnesses.
“The MR-OPV SIA of DOH is very important. It’s free, it’s safe and for sure it’s effective,” she added.
The provinces of Sorsogon, Masbate, and Camarines Norte will continue the MR OPV SIA, with the exception of areas with strict quarantine protocols and those severely affected by the recent typhoons.
Parents who have participated in the vaccination activities as well as local chief executives and government workers, expressed their gratitude and praises for the supplemental immunization program and encouraged others to take part to protect not only their children but those around them as well.
Measles, rubella, and polio are highly contagious diseases that may cause complications or death when neglected. There are currently no cures for these diseases, and may only be preventable through vaccination. (PNA)
