DAVAO CITY – The City Health Office (CHO) has started providing free vaccines for influenza and pneumonia at local health centers, prioritizing senior citizens, individuals with comorbidities, and front-liners.
CHO head Dr. Tomas Ababon encouraged residents to visit their nearest health centers for vaccination schedules that will run until Dec. 20.
While the influenza vaccine is available for residents aged 18 and above, priority is being given to high-risk groups. Pneumococcal vaccines are limited to senior citizens due to restricted supply.
“The vaccines will also be available for city government employees at Osmeña Park from Dec. 18 to 20. We will cater to walk-ins from the priority groups, distributing vaccines while supplies last,” Ababon said in a statement through the City Information Office on Thursday.
The city received 2,900 vials of influenza vaccines for distribution.
Ababon emphasized that flu vaccines are the best protection against influenza, which can cause severe complications for certain groups.
Pneumococcal vaccines help protect against bacteria that cause pneumococcal diseases, he added. (PNA)
