Public urged: Get bivalent vaccine against COVID-19

CEBU, Philippines —  The Department of Health has encouraged eligible Filipinos, especially healthcare workers and senior citizens, to avail of the bivalent vaccine against Covid-19.

The country has received 390,000 donated bivalent vaccines that will be launched on June 21, 2023, at the Philippine Heart Center (PHC) in Quezon City.

Prior to the launch, Health Secretary Teodoro J. Herbosa instructed his executive committee members to intensify the vaccination efforts to further the population’s protection against the virus, especially the healthcare workers (A1) and Senior Citizens (A2), and to also avoid wastage.

Last March 31, 2023, the DOH issued a Department Memorandum providing guidance on the management and administration of the donated bivalent vaccines.

The bivalent vaccines include two components, one that corresponds to the original virus strain to provide broad protection against COVID-19, and another one that corresponds to the omicron variant.

With this, better protection against COVID-19 caused by the omicron variant is expected. As stated in the said memo, an individual may be vaccinated with the bivalent vaccine after at least four (4) to six (6) months after their second booster vaccination.

“Para sa mas pinalakas na proteksyon, kumpletong booster ang solusyon! Magpabakuna ng unang dalawang booster ngayon at bivalent booster kapag pagkakataon mo na!” said Herbosa.

Herbosa said that despite the downtrend of COVID-19 cases people are expected to sustain their vigilance and not to be complacent, especially the senior citizens who are high-risk individuals and persons taking care of those with COVID-19.

“Vaccines are proven to be safe, effective, and free. I am encouraging all eligible to get boosted in the vaccination sites nearest to you. In the fight against COVID-19, no one should be left behind,” said Herbosa.