Valencia City urges immunization for schoolchildren, IPs

By Nef Luczon

October 7, 2024, 8:50 pm

<p><strong>IMMUNIZATION CAMPAIGN.</strong> Health workers, local officials, and DOH representatives gather for the ceremonial launch of the month-long school-based immunization program in Valencia City, Bukidnon, on Monday (Oct. 7, 2024). The program aims to protect schoolchildren, including those from indigenous communities, from various diseases.<em> (Photo courtesy of Valencia CIO)</em></p>

IMMUNIZATION CAMPAIGN. Health workers, local officials, and DOH representatives gather for the ceremonial launch of the month-long school-based immunization program in Valencia City, Bukidnon, on Monday (Oct. 7, 2024). The program aims to protect schoolchildren, including those from indigenous communities, from various diseases. (Photo courtesy of Valencia CIO)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The Valencia City government in Bukidnon is urging parents, especially those in indigenous people (IP) communities, to support the Department of Health's (DOH) school-based immunization program.

At Monday’s launch, Bae Irene Pandian, the city's IP Mandatory Representative, underscored the importance of vaccines in protecting children from preventable diseases.

"Vaccines prevent hospitalizations, which is crucial for our children," she said in the dialect.

The program, which targets students from Grades 1 to 7, provides vaccines for measles, rubella, diphtheria, and human papillomavirus (HPV).

Councilor Jerusha Cadigal-Recla, head of the Committee on Health, assured parents that vaccination is necessary to avoid future health complications.

The month-long initiative covers children aged 6 to 13, including those in IP communities. (PNA)

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