Makati launches shingles vaccine drive

Makati launches shingles vaccine drive

/ 11:54 PM August 09, 2024

The local government of Makati has started providing free shingle vaccines for its immunocompromised and senior citizens.

Makati Mayor Abby Binay FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — The local government of Makati has started providing free shingles vaccines for its immunocompromised and senior citizens.

Mayor Abby Binay on Friday said she directed the Makati Health Department vaccination teams to roll out the first dose of Shingrix vaccines house-to-house in various barangays.

Article continues after this advertisement

“We encourage all eligible residents to take advantage of this free vaccination service to protect themselves from the severe effects of shingles,” Binay said in a statement.

FEATURED STORIES

“Our shingles vaccination drive is an important step in our continuous effort to ensure the health and safety of all Makatizens,” she continued. “By protecting the most vulnerable residents against shingles, we are working towards a healthier, better protected, and more resilient community.”

Immunocompromised adults aged 19 and above and seniors aged 50 to 80 are eligible for free vaccines.

Article continues after this advertisement

The second dose will be given after a month to immunocompromised adults, while seniors have to wait two months after their first shot.

Article continues after this advertisement

The vaccine is free to Makati Yellow Card holders, also known as the Makati Health Plus Program.

Article continues after this advertisement

Shingles is a viral infection caused by varicella-zoster similar to chickenpox, with symptoms including pain, burning, tingling, and a red rash that develops into itchy, fluid-filled blisters.

READ: BIZ BUZZ: Vaccine inequity, local government style

Article continues after this advertisement

Since January this year, Binay nearly 12,000 residents have pre-registered for the two doses of shingles shots.

To date, Makati City remains the only local government in the country providing free shingles vaccines.—Arianne Denisse Cagsawa, trainee

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.

Subscribe to our daily newsletter

By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.

TAGS: free vaccine, Health, Makati, shingles

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.

Subscribe to our newsletter!

By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.

© Copyright 1997-2024 INQUIRER.net | All Rights Reserved

This is an information message

We use cookies to enhance your experience. By continuing, you agree to our use of cookies. Learn more here.