By Ma. Teresa Montemayor
MANILA – Senior health advocates have called on local government units (LGUs) to protect high-risk groups like the elderly against influenza-like illnesses (ILIs), emphasizing that delayed vaccination could lead to severe and costly flu complications.
The advisory came after the Quezon City government reported that the ILIs have surpassed the epidemic threshold, with 152 cases reported from August 31 to September 13 this year
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The Private Hospitals Association of the Philippines, Inc. (PHAPI) has also reported a 10% increase in patient admissions, noting that hospitals are “mostly full” as the rainy season intensifies.
Bayan Bakuna lead convenor Mikaella Jeleene Salinas Asoy said vaccine allocations from the national government remain uncertain. “LGUs should immediately coordinate with the Department of Health (DOH) for available allocations or, if none are provided, procure vaccines locally and roll out vaccination drives before cases surge further,” she said in a statement.
According to health experts, seniors face highest risk of severe flu complications, including pneumonia and heart attacks. Hospitalization costs for such can range from P10,000 to P30,000. Household transmission rates can reach 13% to 32% with flu spreading aggressively among school-age children. Older persons who live with or help care for grandchildren who may unknowingly bring the virus home bring about greater risks.
“The reported spike in cases highlights the urgent need for preventive measures,” Asoy said; adding that
“vaccination remains the most proven, cost-effective way to protect the elderly population.” She urged families to accompany their elderly loved ones to barangay health centers and inquire about vaccine availability.
She also noted that such community demand can help LGUs prioritize vaccination programs and ensure that seniors are protected from vaccine-preventable diseases.
Bayan Bakuna is a grassroots senior citizens’ organization that aims to promote the welfare of drnior citizens through productive legislative collaborations. It has developed a position paper advocating the intensive implementation of Republic Act 9994, also known as the Expanded Senior Citizens Act which advocates free influenza and pneumococcal vaccines for indigent senior citizens. (PNA)