Health comm pushes ‘Bakuna Champions’ ordinance

To equip Barangay Health Workers (BHW) with tools and training to boost immunization drive, the City Council committee on health, nutrition, and health insurance chaired by Councilor Paolo Nicolo Gaane is favorably endorsing the proposed “Bakuna Champions” ordinance.

The ‘Bakuna Champions’ ordinance seeks to empower BHWs through comprehensive training programs and community seminars designed to build trust and educate the public on the benefits of immunization.

During the meeting, Mr. Giovanni P. Dael of the City Health Office emphasized the critical role that trust plays in public health initiatives, especially that a number of residents remain hesitant to receive vaccinations due to misinformation and a lack of confidence in medical advice.

“We are seeing evidence that bakuna is really helpful,” he stressed while confirming that the Measles-Rubella Supplemental Immunization Activity (MR-SIA) campaign has served 92% of children aged 6–59 months in the city.

REWARD SYSTEM

Councilor Gaane cited the reward system provision of the proposed ordinance, adding it would motivate the BHWs to hit immunization targets.

“We believe that recognition and incentives can boost morale and performance”, he said.

For her part, City Director Ellaine Depaur of the Department of Interior and Local Government emphasized the importance of maintaining detailed records of vaccination activities as outlined in the provisions.

She highlighted that creating a comprehensive database is essential for future reference, especially in circumstances where a volunteer may choose to discontinue their service.

All other recommendations from different offices will be reviewed and incorporated in the final draft of the proposed ordinance. (JBD/SP)