150,000 kids in Ilocos to get free vaccines

MANILA, Philippines — Up to 150,000 schoolchildren in Ilocos region will receive free vaccines against measles and other communicable diseases, according to the Department of Health.

DOH-Ilocos chief Paula Paz Sydiongco said the agency would also provide free human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine to 15,000  girls in Grade 4.

“These children will be vaccinated against measles, rubella, tetanus and diphtheria to protect them from these diseases. Grade 4 female pupils will be given HPV vaccine for protection against cervical cancer,” Syndiongco said.

She said the free vaccination is part of the DOH and the Department of Education’s school-based “Bakuna Eskwela” program. 

“The vaccination is not mandatory. Parents’ consent is required for the inoculation,” Syndiongco said.

She said the health department encouraged parents to have their children vaccinated against deadly diseases.

“Vaccines provided by the DOH are safe and effective in combatting diseases. Please allow your children to undergo vaccination so they will grow stronger and safe from danger,” Syndiongco said.

The school-based immunization program will be conducted for the entire month of October.

Rural health units and barangay health stations will continue their routine immunization schedules for children aged 0 to 23 months.