The Makati City government announced on Saturday it is set to give free flu shots to 5,000 city residents who were not vaccinated during the community vaccination drive last August.
“This vaccination drive aims to boost the immune system of Makatizens, especially senior citizens and other residents who are vulnerable to contracting flu. In a way, flu shots are also important in minimizing the complications of COVID-19,” said Mayor Abigail Binay.
Binay said those who want to avail themselves of the city’s free flu shots should register at the Proud Makatizen website (www.proudmakatizen.com).
Records from the Makati Health Department (MHD) as of Nov. 5 showed that 20,511 residents, including senior citizens, immunocompromised individuals, and frontliners, received flu shots. Those who have been given the flu vaccine also received free vaccination shots against pneumonia.
The trivalent flu shots covering three strains of influenza (influenza A or H1N1, influenza A or H3N2, and influenza were first administered to City Hall frontliners and essential workers from July 6 to September 28.
Besides the city’s vaccination drive, Makati also provides free vitamins to senior citizens and personnel who have been reporting for duty during the enhanced community quarantine.
The city government launched the massive flu and pneumonia vaccination drive for residents as part of its measure to prevent the spread of the coronavirus disease.