SIMULATION. A health worker administers a ‘Covid-19 vaccine’ to a senior citizen during a simulation at the Legarda Elementary School in Manila on Thursday (Feb. 18, 2021). The Manila Health Department said it included the elderly in the simulation to prepare for adjustments to be made as vaccinating senior citizens poses a different challenge. (Photo courtesy of Manila PIO)
MANILA – Some 100 senior citizens in Sampaloc, Manila joined on Thursday a coronavirus disease (Covid-19) vaccination simulation exercise.
The activity held at the Legarda Elementary School is part of the Manila city government's preparation plan for its Covid-19 vaccination program.
Manila Health Department (MHD) chief Dr. Arnold Pangan said senior citizens are among those on the priority list of those who will first receive the Covid-19 vaccine.
“Para naman po makita natin kung ano yung magiging problema at kung anong mga adjustments yung gagawin natin. Sa Maynila po kasi meron tayong nasa 157,000 plus na senior citizens pero hindi naman lahat ay willing magpabakuna (This is for us to see future problems that may arise and what adjustments we have to adapt. In Manila, we have more than 157,000 senior citizens although not all of them are willing to be vaccinated)," Pangan said.
He said the MHD will assign a medical front-liner to assist senior citizens until they finish the vaccination process.
The simulation involves the checking of vital signs, screening, and verification, vaccination proper, and placing the vaccinees in a holding area where they will be observed for any adverse effects.
The city government earlier launched a hotline through the Manila Covid-19 Vaccine Action Center (MCVAC) where people can directly ask their questions regarding the Covid-19 vaccine and the vaccination program.
Those who have queries may contact the MCVAC through mobile numbers 09273510849, 09157030621, 09685721975, and 09610202655. (PNA)
