In Cebu City: 93T kids to get anti-dengue vaccine

CEBU, Philippines - Around 93,000 children in Cebu City are expected to undergo their first dose of dengue vaccine to protect them from the dreaded mosquito-borne disease.

Dr. Shelbay Blanco, Department of Health-7 medical officer, said the vaccination is schedule within the week. Cebu City recorded the highest number of dengue cases in the region.

“Dengue is also a disease of urbanization. Since Cebu City has been crowded and densely populated that is why majority of the cases are reported in the city,” Blanco said.

The cities of Mandaue and Lapu-Lapu have already started administering vaccines to children ages 9 to 14. Lapu-Lapu City has around 41,000 target beneficiaries while 36,000 in Mandaue. The vaccine is given in three doses with six months interval.

Blanco reminded parents and guardians to always remember the scheduled return visits for the next injections.

Just like any vaccine, Blanco said children may experience mild and temporary reactions after the vaccination.

He wanted to emphasize that these reactions are mild, temporary and may disappear within 24 hours but if symptoms persist, the child should be brought to a health facility.

DOH-7 has also released an advisory to parents and guardians on what to do if in case the vaccinated child experiences these reactions. Once rashes appear, the child should be brought immediately to the nearest health facility for consultation.

If the child feels pain or experiences swelling on the injection site, one may apply alternately cold and warm compress every 15 minutes using clean cloth until swelling disappears.Parents are also advised to avoid massaging the injection site.

If the child is inflicted with fever or headache, he or she is encouraged to drink plenty of water while the parent or guardian may give Paracetamol every four hours until fever or headache subsides. (FREEMAN)