Protect your child with vaccinations amidst the pandemic

Vaccines save the lives of up to three million children each year. It’s the most simple and effective way to protect children against the most common vaccine-preventable diseases like polio, measles, or tetanus. Having enough immunized children can also minimize the spread of these diseases to those who cannot or are too young to be vaccinated.

Importance of immunization

Amidst the fears and controversies surrounding vaccination, the Department of Health (DOH) has called to the public to trust vaccines that were long proven to be safe and effective. Numerous studies and the countless lives that have been saved can attest that vaccines do work. Parents and caregivers must always remember the life-saving benefits of immunization.

The rate of immunization among children is falling especially now during the pandemic. While staying home as much as possible is a good way to stay healthy, children should still get their scheduled vaccines. Without it, they are more susceptible to diseases that could otherwise be prevented. This makes their regular visits to the doctor even more important nowadays.

Protecting Filipino children

The DOH’s National Immunization Program (NIP) makes sure that all infants and children have access to the recommended childhood vaccines. These are for tuberculosis, poliomyelitis, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, measles, hepatitis, mumps, rubella, and pneumonia. Make sure your children are up to date with the shots against these diseases. If your children have missed any, consult with your family doctor or your local health officers right away to put your children’s immunization schedule back on track.

When visiting the health clinic, be mindful of the following to ensure the safety of your family:

• Be aware of the safety protocols of your clinic or hospital.
• Always wear a mask.
• Bring your own hand sanitizer or alcohol if possible.
• Practice physical distancing in the waiting room.
• Avoid touching your face and other surfaces with your hands.
• Fill out the required health information and COVID-19 screening questions.
• Prepare all necessary information about your child’s medical history and immunization record ahead of time.

The Department of Health continues its immunization campaign by providing free vaccinations to infants and children. Visit its website to find out more about updates on immunization. You can also stay updated by subscribing to the Department of Health’s social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, and Viber.