A pediatric infectious diseases expert has announced the anticipated arrival of a new and supposedly safer dengue vaccine in the Philippines in 2024, aiming to alleviate public concerns stemming from the previous Dengvaxia controversy. Dr. Jonathan Lim reassured the public, emphasizing that the upcoming vaccine is different from Dengvaxia, addressing safety concerns and demonstrating improved efficacy.
Lim mentioned that the new dengue vaccine might be accessible either through government-provided distribution or commercially via private sectors and pharmaceutical companies. In an interview at the 24th Philippine National Immunization Conference in Cebu City, he emphasized the positive aspects of the incoming vaccine, noting its distinct characteristics that contribute to enhanced safety and efficacy.
Despite the upcoming vaccine, health experts are grappling with the challenge of vaccine hesitancy, particularly in a country marked by a high number of individuals with zero vaccinations. Lim, the overall chairman of the conference, expressed dismay over the Philippines being among the nations with the highest rate of zero vaccination, attributing it to the Dengvaxia controversy and the restrictive no-contact policy during the Covid-19 pandemic.
During the conference, experts advocated for a robust campaign affirming the safety of vaccines and their crucial role in preventing diseases such as dengue and the human papillomavirus (HPV), linked to various cancers. Dr. Mitzi Maria Chua, an adult infectious diseases specialist, stressed the prevalence of HPV infections, urging early vaccination for children as young as nine to prevent over 90 percent of cancers caused by the virus.
Chua highlighted the unawareness among adults regarding HPV’s association with cancers beyond cervical cancer and debunked the misconception that it only affects those in polygamous relationships. Despite the significant public health concern posed by HPV, a considerable number of adults remain uninformed about its potential consequences.
The 24th Philippine National Immunization Conference drew over 600 healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, midwives, and pharmacists, emphasizing the importance of immunization in public health.
Si Venus L Peñaflor ay naging editor-in-chief ng Newsworld, isang lokal na pahayagan ng Laguna. Publisher din siya ng Daystar Gazette at Tutubi News Magazine. Siya ay isa ring pintor at doll face designer ng Ninay Dolls, ang unang Manikang Pilipino. Kasali siya sa DesignCrowd sa rank na #305 sa 640,000 graphic designers sa buong daigdig. Kasama din siya sa unang Local TV Broadcast sa Laguna na Beyond Manila. Aktibong kasapi siya ng San Pablo Jaycees Senate bilang isang JCI Senator.
