Vaccine Advocacy. Dr. Robert Tagocon (left), a pediatrician with the Philippine Pediatric Society North Central Mindanao chapter, speaks during Talakayan sa PIA at SM CDO Downtown about the risks faced by unvaccinated children, including the potential to spread disease to infants, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals. (Photo: MBA/PIA-10)
TheMonitorMindanaoToday.com | DOH NorMin cautions parents of fake news on measles vaccine
By: Jasper Marie O. Rucat
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — The Department of Health-Center for Health Development Northern Mindanao (DOH-CHDNM) is urging parents to verify social media information about the measles-rubella vaccine, citing the spread of false claims.
“We have a lot of fake news, especially on social media. They have to be addressed,” said Dr. Elma Oclarit, head of the Family Health Cluster of DOH-CHDNM, during an episode of Talakayan sa PIA: Konsultayo Series at SM CDO Downtown on February 5.
Oclarit said the measles and rubella vaccines have undergone strict safety testing and have been used globally for years. She said the vaccines are safe and effective despite claims circulating online.
The agency is conducting the Measles-Rubella Supplemental Immunization Activity (MR-SIA) to increase population immunity and prevent outbreaks, particularly among children younger than 5.
As of February 5, around 412,711 children in Northern Mindanao have been vaccinated against measles and rubella, or 78.82% of the 523,619 target.
From January 4 to 31, the region recorded 13 measles-rubella cases, 160% higher than during the same period last year.
Health officials said vaccine hesitancy remains a challenge.
Dr. Robert Tagocon, a pediatrician and representative of the Philippine Pediatric Society North Central Mindanao chapter, said unvaccinated children face a higher risk of infection and can transmit the disease to infants, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems.
“Ang katong mga gitawag nato nga mga hesitant ug katong mga refuser nga mga tao, paspas kaayo sila mopindot sa ilahang cellphone mo-spread nga kana makadaot na (Those whom we call hesitant and those who refuse are quick to use their cellphones to spread claims that it is harmful),” Tagocon said.
Tagocon urged parents to verify online posts before believing or sharing them. He advised families to consult health centers and licensed medical practitioners for accurate information.
He also called on doctors in private hospitals and clinics to support the government’s supplemental immunization drive. While measles and rubella vaccines are part of routine childhood immunization, he said a supplemental dose provides added protection.
“The supplemental dose ensures stronger and wider protection and helps prevent outbreaks,” Tagocon said.
“As doctors, we assure you that vaccines—especially the Measles-Rubella vaccine—are safe, effective, and lifesaving. Vaccination is not just a personal choice; it is a shared responsibility,” he added. (JMOR/PIA-10)
###
