By Rjay Zuriaga Castor and Juliane Judilla
The Iloilo City Health Office (CHO) has administered free flu vaccines to 63,672 individuals as of December 26, marking a significant milestone in the city’s public health campaign.
The figure reflects an increase of 16,672 vaccinations since December 15, highlighting the city’s intensified efforts to protect residents from influenza-like illnesses (ILI).
“In just 11 days, we have reached over 16,000 more individuals, showcasing the cooperation and commitment of our fellow Ilonggos to safeguard our health,” Mayor Jerry Treñas said.
Treñas previously urged the public, including non-residents, to avail themselves of the free flu shots offered by the CHO to boost protection against ILIs.
ILIs are among the “WILD” diseases monitored by the Department of Health (DOH) during the rainy season, alongside water- and food-borne diseases, leptospirosis, and dengue.
“To those who have yet to receive their flu vaccine, I encourage you to visit your nearest health center in every district or the flu vaccination site at the City Health Office on the second floor of Iloilo City Hall,” Treñas added.
Target Groups for Vaccination
The CHO emphasized the importance of flu vaccination, particularly for high-risk groups:
- Individuals aged 10 and older
- Seniors aged 60 and above
- Pregnant women in their fifth month or later
- People living with HIV
- Healthcare and frontline workers
- Individuals with chronic conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, lung disease, heart failure, or cancer
The CHO warned that older adults (65+) and immunocompromised individuals are especially vulnerable to severe flu complications.
Collaboration for Mass Vaccination
To further expand the vaccination coverage, Treñas called on companies, educational institutions, and government offices to coordinate with the CHO for mass vaccination drives.
“Buligan ta ninyo ini tanan (Let’s help each other) for safer workplaces, learning environments, and public spaces for everyone,” he emphasized.
Gratitude for Support
Treñas expressed gratitude to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and the Department of Health for their support in allocating the vaccines.
“Without their assistance, our flu vaccination program would not have reached this level of success,” Treñas said.
The free flu vaccines remain available at district health centers and the CHO vaccination site at Iloilo City Hall.
