Makati City employees get free vaccination

MANILA, Philippines – The Makati City government, through the local health department, has launched an influenza vaccination program for its employees.

Dubbed “Iwasan ang trangkaso, magpabakuna kontra influenza at AH1N1,” the vaccination program was held last Oct. 4 at the Makati City Hall Quadrangle where city government employees received free vaccination against seasonal influenza and pandemic (AH1N1) influenza.

Indicated for individuals aged six months and older, the trusted preservative-free, two-in-one flu vaccine is a product of research-based Swiss healthcare company Novartis.

In June 2009, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared an influenza pandemic, which claimed over 16,000 lives.

According to experts, the AH1N1 influenza virus is deadlier than the virus that causes seasonal influenza, thus preventive measures such as frequent handwashing, vitamin supplementation to strengthen the immune system, and immunization are crucial in preventing influenza.

“We recognize the continuing threat of influenza and the need to remain vigilant. Our influenza vaccination program is in line with the Makati City government’s commitment to help prevent the onset and spread of life-threatening diseases such as AH1N1 influenza,” said Dr. Ma. Lourdes Salud, city health officer.

“This influenza vaccination program is just one of various healthy lifestyle programs the Makati City government will be implementing to benefit its employees and residents,” said Makati Mayor Jejomar Erwin Binay Jr.

Conceived in 1986 by then Makati mayor Jejomar Binay, the Makati Health Program (MHP) aims to provide quality medical services and encourage health awareness through subsidized quality hospitalization.

Its target beneficiaries are Makati residents earning P10,000 and below, senior citizens and city government employees, including public teachers, policemen and firemen.

The MHP has been recognized both locally and globally for its excellence. In 1994, it was adjudged the Most Outstanding Kabisig Project in the National Capital Region for its commitment to promote active participation among people’s and non-government organizations and the private sector.

Because of its integrated and holistic approach to socialized health care, Makati City was recognized by the Department of Health in 1995 as the country’s First Healthy City.

In 2002, the prestigious Dubai International “Best Practices” Award, a project of the United Nations Habitat, recognized the program’s contribution to improve the living environment; the MHP was selected from more than 500 entries worldwide.