DOH: Administering polio vaccine in subdivisions a challenge

Gated communities pose a challenge to the ongoing door-to-door polio mass  immunization, according to the Department of Health.

GMA News' Unang Balita reported that some DOH personnel encountered difficulties in entering subdivisions as they roamed in various parts of the country for the vaccination drive against polio, which re-emerged in the country after 19 years.

Health spokesperson Usec. Eric Domingo said the DOH is already coordinating with homeowners' associations to allow the vaccinators to enter.

Setting up "Patak Centers" in subdivisions is also being eyed to conveniently facilitate the oral vaccination measure.

Domingo added that the DOH is tapping some private pediatricians to assist in immunization efforts.

Health Secretary Francisco Duque III expressed confidence that the DOH will reach the target 95% immunization coverage among children aged five and below.

The DOH started its synchronized polio immunization drive in Metro Manila, Marawi City in Lanao del Sur and Davao del Sur last Monday. —Dona Magsino/LBG, GMA News