The Department of Health (DOH) on Friday mentioned the nation’s COVID-19 vaccination program can be affected if the state of calamity will not be prolonged.
In a message to reporters, the DOH mentioned it already submitted suggestions to President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. relating to the extension of the state of calamity.
“If the extension will not be approved, we can still continue with the COVID-19 vaccination program using existing doses considering their validity is hinged on their Emergency Use Authorizations (EUAs),” it mentioned.
“But, we cannot procure additional doses, including the bivalent vaccines. Also, it is expected that the number of vaccinators will decrease as other cadres such as pharmacists may no longer be tapped, and willingness to vaccinate may decrease as immunity from liability is not guaranteed,” it added.
The DOH expressed openness to alternate options to forestall the disruption of the vaccination program just like the attainable grant of a particular authority to buy.
On Thursday, Marcos mentioned he’s nonetheless “very, very hesitant to continue the state of calamity, to extend it because again we are not in a state of calamity anymore, technically speaking.”
“And that is the wrong mindset to be approaching the New Year with. So we’re still trying to find ways to continue to provide the benefits to our medical health workers which is the main issue without the state of calamity.”
According to the DOH, it would continue coordinating with Marcos and wait for his decision on the matter.
The Health Department is also in discussion with vaccine manufacturers and COVAX facilities “to safe bivalent vaccines this coming 12 months.”
The nation’s state of calamity is ready to run out on December 31, 2022.—AOL, GMA Integrated News
