The City Government of San Fernando is intensifying its efforts to provide essential information about COVID-19 vaccines in grassroots level as it started vaccination program “town hall” this March.
The information, education, and communication campaign (IEC) serves as the City’s venue for dialogue with Fernandinos to answer questions and concerns about the vaccination program.
Dr. Cheriane Canlas, of the City Health Office (CHO) and program manager, said the program will encourage Fernandinos to support the government’s vaccination program amidst mounting issues and concerns.
“Layunin ng aktibidad na ito na mabigyan ng tamang impormasyon ang mga tao tungkol sa mga bakuna kontra COVID at upang mawala ang kanilang takot at mahikayat silang magpabakuna sa panahong sila ay maaaring mabakunahan,” explained Canlas.
Apart from the discussion on age and health condition requirements for the vaccine, the town hall also features public “frequently asked questions,” including the correct information about side effects and risks of the vaccines and the expected roll out of actual vaccination program in the city.
Canlas cited that while the government has identified qualified recipients of the vaccine, the town hall meetings are open to all residents.
“Target po na mabigyan ng kaalaman ukol sa COVID-19 vaccination program ang lahat ng mamamayan na nais mabigyan ng kaalaman ukol sa programang ito upang mawala ang takot at pangamba sa ating komunidad,” she added.
It was also discussed that, by June, the City expects delivery of vaccines for 40,000 to 50,000 people, with healthcare workers, front line personnel, and senior citizens as priority groups.
Aside from the town hall meetings, the City implements manual and online procedures of COVID-19 vaccination survey that are administered by the CHO through the barangay health workers and other partner offices.
CHO said they are steadfast in conducting IEC campaigns and surveys to fully acquire the stand of Fernandinos on this vaccination program, prior to the actual vaccination activities.