Navotas City has breached the 100-percent mark in its intensified polio vaccination program for children as spearheaded by the Department of Health (DOH).
The nationwide campaign dubbed Chikiting Ligtas 2024 involved the administration of bivalent Oral Polio Vaccine Supplemental Immunization Activity under the auspices of the DOH.
Navotas became the first among cities in the CAMANAVA to hit its target.
The City Health Office recorded a total of 16,062 children immunized against polio in the city.
Of this number, 661 children were 0-23 months old, while 15,401 were 24-59 months of age. These children were targeted for immunization after missing some doses or not receiving any doses in the past year.
Mayor John Rey Tiangco encouraged parents and guardians to have their children vaccinated against the polio virus, which is a potentially debilitating disease that affects the spinal cord and muscles. It is especially dangerous for children five years old and below.
“The polio vaccine is safe and effective. Let us ensure that our children are protected from vaccine-preventable diseases by making sure that their immunization is updated,” he said. Jun David
There is currently no known treatment for polio and vaccination is the only effective way to prevent the possibility of an outbreak.
The Chikiting Ligtas campaign will continue until May 15, 2024. Routine vaccines will also continue to be available in city health centers.