Makati resumes free vax for students

MANILA, Philippines — The local government of Makati has resumed its free school-based immunization program for Grades 1 to 7 as well as Grade 4 female students.

According to Mayor Abby Binay, the program targets 7,621 students in 24 public elementary and high schools in the city.

Binay said the initiative is part of Makati’s continuous efforts to protect children from vaccine-preventable diseases, including measles, rubella, tetanus, diphtheria and human papillomavirus or HPV.

“By resuming our school-based immunization program, we are taking another important step in safeguarding our children’s health and ensuring they have the protection they need as they continue their education in a safe environment,” Binay said.

According to the city health department, the free vaccination program covers measles, rubella and tetanus-diphtheria vaccines for Grades 1 and 7.

Grade 4 female students will receive the HPV vaccine in two doses over six months.