Vaccine expert panel chairperson, Dr. Nina Gloriani, backed the World Health Organization warning of possible Covid-19 surge in the country after the May 9 elections.
Gloriani also cautioned the public about conducting mass gatherings, especially during the Holy Week.
“This is the time when people get together. We may not know someone is carrying the virus. So it is important that we continue adhering to the practices of minimum public health precautions,” she said.
Health authorities also fear lower vaccination turnout amid the campaign and election period.
Thus, other means and strategies to inoculate more are being planned, including house-to-house vaccination, while inoculation in job sites, pharmacies, clinics, and even churches are being implemented.
The latest data showed that of the more than 66.2 million fully vaccinated Filipinos, only 12.2 million have booster doses.
As of April 6, the country has 32,463 active cases out of the total 3.6 million confirmed infections.
Gloriani said the government’s priority is to continue encouraging the unvaccinated individuals to avail themselves of vaccines amid the election frenzy.
“Well, of course, kapag isa lang ang dose, may kaunting proteksiyon. Kapag nakumpleto ninyo iyong pangalawa, mas mataas ang proteksiyon. After three months, at least, at puwede na kayo sa third dose, mas mataas pa iyong proteksiyon lalung-lalo na sa variants,” she added.
Gloriani reminded the public anew the Covid-19 pandemic is not yet over and wearing of mask and physical distancing must be maintained. – PNA
April 26, 2024
