The Department of Health (DOH) has declared a nationwide dengue epidemic. This announcement has probably created a high sense of fear and anxiety among Filipino citizens.
I’m one of those who want the government to bring back the Dengvaxia vaccination program.
First, Dengvaxia is effective. Clearly not 100 percent, since
no medicine or injectable is perfectly effective, but those who complete the dosage have higher chances of surviving the virus. Countries like Singapore have approved the use of Dengvaxia.
The fault lies in the DOH injecting the treatment on those who haven’t had dengue at all. Dengvaxia is a treatment and not a prevention, so it will really cause unwanted side effects, especially on those who are completely fine and healthy.
Second, Dengvaxia is one of the affordable ways to treat dengue. Of course, safety comes first — parents should prevent their children from infection rather than just depend on vaccines. Families should keep their home and surroundings clean and take all the necessary precautions.
Nothing is perfect, not even medicines or vaccines. Many won’t like the idea of Dengvaxia being brought back into the Philippine vaccine list, but it will always be the parents’ decision that should prevail.
GEHLA MAE C. DOCALLOS
ehldoc1807@gmail.com