CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA)–The first batch of coronavirus disease (COVID)-19 vaccine arrived, March 4, 5:30 a.m. at Laguindingan Airport via Philippine Airlines PR Flight 2519.
A total of 17, 400 vials of Sinovac have been transported to facilitate the vaccination of priority groups in the region.
Upon arrival, the vaccines were then brought to the Department of Health (DOH)-10 warehouse for proper accounting, checking and cold chain management.
Meanwhile, the first inoculation is expected to be done tomorrow for the healthcare workers of Northern Mindanao Medical Center (NMMC).
“We have already received Sinovac vaccines for Region 10 with a total of 17,400 vials. We will be following the prioritization framework, to start with COVID-19 dedicated hospitals such as Level 3 public hospitals particularly NMMC, then Level 3 private hospitals, then Level 2 government hospitals, and level 2 private hospitals,” said Dr. Ellenietta N. Gamolo, DOH-10 officer-in-charge regional director.
About 1,820 are eligible recipients at NMMC and DOH is giving them 100 percent allocation based on eligible population.
The Sinovac has been Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for vaccines approved by the Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) and considered safe and effective, she explained.
“We urge everyone who is part of the priority group for this vaccination to get vaccinated. For those who are not yet priority for the vaccine, please continue practicing the BIDA Plus Solusyon,” Gamolo said. (JMOR/PIA10)
