Photo: Philippine News Agency
The bivalent Pfizer coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine has been successfully administered to 4,447 individuals from targeted priority sectors in Western Visayas, marking a significant step in the region’s vaccination efforts. The Department of Health Western Visayas Center for Health Development (DOH WV CHD) shared this update, revealing that this number accounts for 37.81% of the 11,760 doses allocated to the provincial and city health offices.
Dr. Jose Martin Atienza from WVCHD explained that a strategic decision has been made to recommend reallocating vaccine doses from hospitals to rural health units and district health centers. This move aims to ensure equitable access to vaccines for eligible populations.
Dr. Anthony Cu, Director IV of the DOH Field Operation System Management, highlighted the expanded use of the bivalent Pfizer vaccine. Initially intended as a third booster shot, the vaccine is now available as a first, second, or third booster dose for priority groups, including healthcare workers, senior citizens, adults with comorbidities, and their sub-priority groups.
To secure a steady vaccine supply, negotiations are underway between the DOH and the Covid-19 Vaccines Global Access (COVAX) Facility for an additional two million doses of the bivalent vaccine.
In conjunction with the bivalent vaccine, Western Visayas continues to offer the Pfizer orange cap vaccine for children aged 5 to 11, as well as Sinovac for other age groups, ensuring comprehensive coverage across different demographics.
As the state of public health emergency evolves, health officials emphasize the continued importance of vigilance and adherence to minimum public health standards. Dr. Atienza and Dr. Cu underscored the significance of receiving primary or booster doses, reassuring the public of the vaccine’s efficacy in preventing severe forms of the disease.
