DOH urged to promote COVID vax benefits
IN a bid to encourage more Filipinos to get COVID-19 vaccination, a neophyte solon proposed to the Department of Health (DoH) the promotion of pro-vaccination messages.
Rizal Rep. Fidel Nograles said the DOH, through a massive information drive, can tell the public on the benefits and privileges that can be given to those who can complete the two-dose vaccine.
For example, Nograles said, those who have completed the inoculation could be allowed to play basketball or be exempted from curfew restrictions.
Nograles has expressed full support for the vaccination program of the government.
“We know that the people of DOH, especially our frontline healthcare workers, are committed to achieving herd immunity for the Filipino people. However, we have heard that some of our citizens fail to show up for their second jabs while others, which are worse, completely shun our vaccination program,” he said.
“In line with this, I suggest that the government make the practical advantages of being vaccinated the center of our messaging. In focusing on the what’s-in-it-for-me part, more people will understand how being vaccinated helps them in everyday life,” Nograles added.
The Rizal solon explained that some of the practical advantages we can concentrate on are being able to worry less about contracting severe COVID or being less contagious which in effect protects our loved ones at home.
The young lawmaker stressed that the government can highlight advantages by revising some of our policies and protocols.
“We can probably exempt those who have completed their vaccine doses to the curfew being imposed now due to the pandemic. Considering the vaccination card as some form of a passport to ease travel and movement may also be considered,” he said.
Nograles also mentioned the possibility of allowing more physical activities or sports for those who are already fully vaccinated and for them to be healthier.
“I’m sure our public health experts can think of more ways to highlight vaccine advantages so we can truly send our message across. I can assure our health officials and healthcare workers that I am with them in the pursuit of ensuring everyone is protected so we will soon be back to the new normal,” Nograles said.
