The Department of Health (DOH) on Wednesday announced plans to fast-track the procurement of vaccines to ensure adequate supply and meet the country’s 95 percent immunization target.
Health Secretary Ted Herbosa said the initiative covers vaccines for polio, measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, influenza, and hepatitis B.
Achieving this goal, he said, requires addressing long-standing challenges that have hindered the country’s vaccination campaigns.
Herbosa outlined several measures being undertaken by the DOH in collaboration with local governments, lawmakers, and the private sector.
These steps include the use of digital technology to improve vaccine supply chain management and tracking, and streamlining the procurement process to avoid delays in the delivery and distribution of vaccines nationwide.
Enhancing the cold chain system is another top priority to maintain vaccine quality during storage and transport.
Efforts are also underway to combat misinformation that continues to discourage many Filipinos from getting vaccinated.
The health chief noted that digital tools and better communication strategies are essential in rebuilding public trust in immunization, as well as the expansion of the “PuroKalusugan” and “BUCAS” Centers as part of the government’s efforts to make essential health services more accessible.
These centers are expected to bring vaccination and other primary health services closer to families in rural and urban communities.
