The city government here on Wednesday started its massive information campaign on vaccination for the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) by distributing leaflets to the public.

Mayor Junard Chan led the distribution in a public market.

The leaflets, which contain frequently asked questions about Covid-19 vaccines written in local dialect, were distributed to vendors and market shoppers.

The campaign aims to educate the public that vaccines can help eradicate the chance of contracting the virus and lessen the severity of the disease in case a person gets infected.

The city government expects the vaccination rollout to start next month.

Chan, in a statement, said front-liners, vendors, drivers as well as senior citizens will be the priority in the vaccination program.

Children’s vaccination

Local health authorities are conducting vaccination for children against polio and measles and rubella. Originally scheduled only this month, the campaign will be extended up to March 7.

Chan added that as of Wednesday, only 20 out of 30 city barangays reached 90 percent of their vaccination target. He said the other 10 barangays have only vaccinated 40 percent of the target.

“We are helping them, urging our parents to have their children vaccinated against measles and polio vaccines,” he said.

The mayor admitted that some parents are still afraid of what happened to the Dengvaxia, the dengue vaccine rolled out by the government that allegedly caused adverse side effects and even deaths.

“But remember polio and measles vaccines are already tried and tested,” he said.

According to city health officer, Dr. Susan Damole, a polio vaccine costs at least PHP2,500 if bought in private clinics, while the rubella and measles vaccine costs PHP1,500. The government, however, gives it to children for free. (PNA)