AROUND 17,000 senior citizens in Mandaue City have already received either the first or second dose of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) vaccine, as of the first week of August.
There are 36,000 senior citizens in the City’s vaccination masterlist.
In July, the City reported a low turnout of senior citizens’ vaccination, having vaccinated around 7,000 individuals, or 21 percent of those who registered for inoculation.
On July 20, the City received 11,250 doses of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, but 2,000 doses were transferred to Talisay City.
The Johnson & Johnson vaccine was exclusively administered to senior citizens until the first week of August, as it is a one-dose vaccine.
Ernie Manatad, head of the City’s Vaccine Board, said that despite the jump in the number of vaccinations, many senior citizens continue to be vaccine hesitant.
Many of them worry that their existing medical condition might only worsen if they get the jab, he said.
However, Manatad emphasized that vaccines are safe to be administered.
He said they also need to convince family of senior citizens to allow the latter to be vaccinated.
He said they’ve advised senior citizens and their families to secure a doctor’s clearance before vaccination to allay any fears. Knowing that their health status is stable is a confidence booster, Manatad said.
Meanwhile, Manatad said they will continue the information drive on Covid-19 vaccination in barangays and explain to the public the benefits of getting vaccinated against the coronavirus.
He said they are presenting models, or persons who are vaccinated, in the barangays during the information drive to promote the vaccination program.
He said they are also using the influence of family, relatives and friends to convince those who are still hesitant to get vaccinated.
The City will continue to vaccinate individuals, particularly senior citizens, at its vaccination sites at the Mandaue City Cultural and Sports Complex, University of Cebu Lapu-Lapu Mandaue, Pacific Mall, JCenter Mall and Parkmall on Monday, Aug. 9. (KFD)