The Department of Health (DOH) together with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) discussed plans to boost the child immunization rate in Ph.
In a stakeholder summit, the DOH said it also served as a way to secure public commitments and mobilize additional resources to help the DOH accelerate reforms in fiscal and legislative reforms, local government action, cold chain and supply chain management, as well as the improvement in vaccine program management.
Participants discussed the necessary immunization reforms such as amending the Immunization Law, increasing investments in strengthening primary health care as a key platform for immunization services.
Also, strengthening the basic health system such as human resources and digitalization, deeper involvement of local chief executives, strengthening the supply chain, and intensifying communication activities, among others.
Best practices were also shared, such as the City of Manila’s success in reaching vulnerable populations, and a youth-led initiative to promote childhood immunization during the COVID-19 era.
According to DOH Sec. Teodoro Herbosa, the DOH reaffirms its commitment to end the spread of vaccine-preventable diseases among children.
By encouraging children and their parents to get regular vaccinations, the department also gives children an extra layer of protection against diseases.
