PGH records full capacity of ICU beds for children

The UP Philippine General Hospital (PGH) in Manila on Tuesday registered a full capacity in its COVID-19 intensive care units for children, who are yet to be inoculated against the disease.

In Joseph Morong's "Saksi" report, PGH spokesman Dr. Jonas del Rosario said that with the threat of Delta variant cases, they are treating more kids infected with the coronavirus disease.

"Right now, ang Delta mas contagious raw kaya we are seeing more pediatric patients getting COVID-19," said Del Rosario.

(Delta variant is more contagious, so we are seeing more pediatric patients getting COVID-19.)

Del Rosario added that the hospital, which is also a COVID-19 referral center, recorded 150 COVID-19 patients in one day, their highest in the last two months.

The COVID-19 vaccination of health workers, senior citizens, people with comorbidities and other essential workers began in March.

Earlier, the Department of Health said it aims to vaccinate from 70% to 80% of its 109-million population.

Health Undersecretary Myrna Cabotaje said in an online forum this proposal would mean that those under 18 years old would also be vaccinated against COVID-19. Currently, the vaccination program is only for individuals aged 18 and above due to the limited supply. -- Consuelo Marquez/BAP, GMA News