Filtered By: Scitech
SciTech

Doctors, experts alarmed over effects of Dengvaxia scare


Doctors and scientists raised concerns over the Dengvaxia controversy that has caused many to be wary of vaccines.

A report by Tina Panganiban Perez in "24 Oras" on Thursday said that despite thorough explanations on vaccines by health officers, families are hesitant to take part in the Department of Health's (DOH) immunization programs.

Only 30 persons showed up for the free anti-flu vaccine in Tondo, Manila, while 60 percent of parents in Zamboanga City did not allow their children to be part of the government's deworming program.

"Nagkaroon kami ng phobia doon sa nangyari doon sa mga bata sa Dengvaxia," a parent said.

Former health secretary Esperanza Cabral reminded that more benefits are reaped if children are vaccinated.

"In general sasabihin natin na talagang mas marami tayong benepisyo na nakukuha sa pagbabakuna kesa sa hindi," she said.

Cabral is one of 50 doctors and scientists who are concerned about the effects of the Dengvaxia scare.

In a statement, the group said they are dismayed over the loss of public confidence in the government's healthcare programs due to the Dengvaxia issue.

"We, physicians and scientists who serve the country in various capacities and sectors, are saddened, dismayed, and alarmed over the manner by which the Dengvaxia controversy has degenerated into a fiasco that has started to erode public confidence in the country's vaccination programs and other public healthcare endeavors," it read.

Incumbent Health Secretary Francisco Duque III said vaccines have been proven to fight many diseases in the past.

"Kasama na ang diphtheria, tetanus, polio, rabies, measles, hepatitis B and C," he said.

"Wag po natin hayaan na mawala ang inyong tiwala," he added. — Jessica Bartolome/BAP, GMA News

LOADING CONTENT