KAPATAGAN, Lanao del Norte (PIA)--Following the mandate of the Department of Health (DOH), the province of Lanao del Norte launched the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccinations for children aged 5 to 11, February 17-18, 2022.
Pfizer vaccine was used for the jabs as this is the only shot that has received emergency use approval for kids aged 5 to 11 years from the Philippines' Food and Drug Administration. The Pfizer vaccine has a lower dosage and lower concentration than those given to youths aged 12 to 17.
To make the children feel more at ease and comfortable during vaccination, Governor Imelda 'Angging' Quibranza-Dimaporo, encouraged all implementing Rural Health Units (RHUs) to decorate the vaccination site as if there's a birthday party.
Dr. Rajemelle D. Bonachita, one of the doctors in charge of the screening in Kapatagan RHU, said that kids are more eager to get vaccinated as compared to elders because they all wanted to be permitted to go to public places and they are excited about the face-to-face classes.
"It is very important to conduct briefing and screening to the parents and children to ensure their compatibility to the vaccine. They need to be in their best shape (not experiencing any symptoms, fever, allergic reactions) to receive their jab," said Dr. Nilda S. Medoza, Municipal Health Officer of Kapatagan.
Meanwhile, an 11-year-old kid named Rex Bagaloyos, received his first dose on Friday. When asked if he was afraid and was hurt by the injection, he said that it hurt a little, but it's okay to get vaccinated. He also called on other kids to get vaccinated for them to go back to school.
As of February 18, 2022, 210 kids from Kapatagan were already inoculated; 264 in Kolambugan, 200 in Tubod, 170 in Lala, 158 in Linamon, 150 in SND, 110 in Sapad, 96 in Kauswagan, 80 in Baroy and Salvador, 50 in Nunungan, 18 in Tagoloan, and 10 in Pantar. (PIO-LDN/PIA-10/Lanao del Norte)