DOH-WV marks 50 years of immunization efforts

By Mariela Angella Oladive

The Department of Health Western Visayas Center for Health and Development (DOH WV CHD) launched its 50th World Immunization Week on Tuesday, April 23, in Sta. Barbara, Iloilo, under the theme “50 Years of Immunization: Happier and Healthier Lives, Kaya sa Healthy Pilipinas.”

The initiative aims to elevate public awareness of the critical role vaccines play in health and to expand immunization outreach in the region.

The event also focused on educating about vaccine benefits and encouraging widespread involvement in immunization programs.

Infants aged 0-12 months received routine and catch-up immunizations, girls aged 9-14 years were offered Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines, and pneumococcal vaccines were made available to seniors. Informational forums were also held to bolster community knowledge on immunization.

Dr. May Ann Sta Lucia, Local Health Support Division chief at DOH WV CHD, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Maria Socorro Quiñon, Municipal Health Officer Dr. Zoe Sucaldito Jr., and representatives from the Family Planning Organization of the Philippines and Sta. Barbara’s municipal leadership were present.

In a statement delivered by Dr. Sta Lucia, DOH 6 Regional Director Adriano P. Suba-an underscored the week’s importance in rallying communities against vaccine-preventable diseases and urged timely vaccinations for children, citing rigorous safety and efficacy tests for approved vaccines.

“As we observe World Immunization Week, let’s remember our achievements and the hurdles we face. We have a shared duty to ensure every child is included in our health initiatives. We strive for a future where all children can thrive healthily,” Suba-an remarked.

Participants like Diane Solaterio, a mother of a young child, highlighted the significance of vaccinations for preventing illnesses and ensuring children’s welfare.

“It’s really important for the child to get vaccinated for protection to prevent diseases. You need to complete it because if not, it is the child who will suffer,” Solaterio said.

Senior citizens also shared their views on the benefits of vaccination.

A 75-year-old resident from Barangay Lacadon mentioned that pneumonia runs in her family, and she trusted that the vaccine would help protect her from the disease.

Reynaldo Padrita, who will turn 80 years old, attended to receive his anti-pneumonia vaccine.

His wife prioritized his vaccination as only a few recipients were allowed per barangay during the event.

“This vaccination is important for our protection. If given a chance I will avail it too. If we get vaccinated, it will be an advantage for us,” she said.

The day’s activities included free Pap Smear Tests, Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (VIA), and dental examinations by FPOP Iloilo, showcasing a holistic health and wellness approach.

By engaging communities such as Sta. Barbara, DOH WV CHD reaffirms its commitment to fostering healthier lives through widespread immunization and access to fundamental health services.