Health Department finalizing procurement process for flu vaccine
The Department of Health (DOH) in the Philippines announced on Thursday that they are in the final stages of the procurement process for 5 million doses of flu vaccines in preparation for the upcoming peak of flu season, which is expected to start in August.
According to the DOH, the vaccines are expected to be delivered as early as next month. The department also mentioned that the vaccination program for senior citizens will continue until the end of the year, and data on influenza-like illnesses is currently being processed.
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines seasonal influenza, or flu, as an acute respiratory infection caused by influenza viruses that spreads easily among people through coughing or sneezing. While most people recover without treatment, vaccination remains the best way to prevent the disease, as per the WHO.
Symptoms of flu include an acute onset of fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, and fatigue. The DOH also noted a decline in cases of influenza-like illnesses nationwide.
Additionally, the department is working on making a bird flu vaccine available in the Philippines soon.
