A timely warning
THE Department of Health (DOH) has warned the public against the sale, distribution and use of illegal mpox vaccines in the country.
DOH Secretary Teodoro Herbosa issued the “warning,” described by many as “timely,” during a press briefing held last Monday.
Herbosa explained that the government, through the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), has not approved any mpox vaccine.
The DOH asked how some individuals and firms managed to get hold of mpox, formerly called “monkey pox,” vaccines.
Hopefully, the Department of Justice, the National Bureau of Investigation and other law enforcement agencies succeed in going after those behind the sale of these smuggled vaccines.
“All vaccines must first be registered with the FDA,” said Herbosa, adding: “Once it is not, it is considered contraband or smuggled.”
The dreaded disease has so far infected 18 Filipinos since August, prompting the authorities to take precautionary measures.
Of the 18 patients, five have already recovered, while 13 remain in home isolation.
Reports said the government was in the process of securing 2,500 doses of mpox vaccines offered by the World Health Organization.
The government, through the DOH, hopes to succeed in preventing the spread of mpox.
