Vaccination of 5- to 11-year-olds moved to Feb. 7 due to 'logistical challenges'
The country's planned COVID-19 vaccination among children aged 5 to 11 initially set on Feb. 4 has been moved next week, Feb. 7, due to "logistical challenges," the Department of Health (DOH) announced Feb. 3.
In a statement, the DOH said the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine shipments for the age group would be arriving on the evening of Feb. 4, instead of Feb. 3.
"To ensure adequate preparation and distribution of the Pfizer vaccines allocated for children 5-11 years old, the COVID-19 vaccination will instead begin on 7 February (Monday)," the DOH said.
Minutes before the DOH announcement, presidential adviser for COVID-19 response Vince Dizon already informed reporters about the reschedule.
At a Laging Handa public on Feb. 3, however, Dr. Ted Herbosa, medical adviser of the National Task Force Versus COVID-19, said the delay in shipment won't affect the pediatric vaccination kick-off.
"Bukas, itutuloy pa rin natin ang ceremonial launching ng vaccination ng 5 to 11 years old doon sa six sites," he said. "Lahat ng 5 to 11 years old na nag-preregister ay scheduled for vaccination starting tomorrow."
Despite the delay, the DOH reminded the public that vaccinating children "is critical to the country's national vaccination program to ensure they have the added protection they need against COVID-19."
With a few more days to prepare for Feb. 7's vaccination day for kids, here are the answers to the frequently asked questions about the process.
