Dizon to CHD: Give children flu shots

FILE PHOTO: The challenge for parents to keep their children safe has grown during the pandemic. NIÑO JESUS ORBETA/INQUIREr

CEBU CITY, Philippines — Since children under 15-years-old are not yet qualified to receive COVID-19 vaccines, the Cebu City government should focus on giving them flu shoots for their protection.

This was the appeal of Councilor Alvin Dizon amid efforts of the national and local governments to inoculate more people with COVID-19 vaccines.

He said that since children are among the vulnerable groups, there is also a need to protect them against the infection.

Children, who are sick with flu, may also be vulnerable to contracting COVID-19 and protecting them against this common illnesses is a means to keep them safe and healthy.

“Influenza can possibly lead to complications such as hospitalization and death and these complications are more common in children below five years of age, pregnant women, patients with chronic illnesses, and the elderly,” he said.

“With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, our children, as one of the most vulnerable sectors, are still not yet allowed to get COVID-19 vaccines and at least they should be given protection in one way or the other through flu shots,” Dizon added.

A resolution which Dizon authored and which the City Council passed during their September 8 session, urges the City Health Department (CHD) to also prioritize the implementation of a flu vaccination program for children.

Dizon’s resolution also asked CHD to promote awareness at the barangay level on the dangers of influenza while highlighting the benefits of getting a flu shot.

Earlier, CHD said they never stopped giving vaccination to children even if the COVID-19 vaccination program is in full swing.

Parents, who wanted to have their children to receive flu vaccines, are advised to visit their office during work hours. / dcb