ZAMBOANGA CITY, Aug 19 (PIA) – Department of Health IX (DOH IX) Medical Officer Dr. Jemuel Cristobal emphasized that all brands of vaccines are effective and can prevent COVID-19-related hospitalization and deaths, including protection from other variants.

“The vaccines are still very potent against COVID-19,” Dr. Cristobal said.

As of August 17, 2021, a total of 113,669 individuals or 16% of the target population have received their first dose of COVID-19 vaccines, while 90,246 individuals or 13% are considered fully vaccinated. Total doses administered is 203,915.

Based from the DOH COVID-19 vaccine online survey data for Region IX, there are still some hesitations from the public regarding vaccination which are the possible side effects not being addressed, negative news about the vaccines and medical reasons.

However, DOH IX together with the Local Government Units continue the information dissemination efforts to encourage more individuals become receptive of vaccines.

"We can see that the vaccination roll-out is taking a lot of time. If it continues to lag, then it is safe to say that need for boosters will probably be significant,” he added.

DOH IX reminds everyone to maintain the minimum health protocols, whether they are vaccinated or not. (EDT/MLE/PIA9-Zamboanga City)