Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 9) – A medical adviser of the National Task Force Against COVID-19 has urged the public to use the Holy Week break to get their booster shot amid the possibility of a fresh surge in infections.
Dr. Ted Herbosa made the appeal as he cited the threat of the “Omicron XE” recombinant variant — which has not yet been detected in the country — and potential “superspreader” events during the Holy Week and the election season.
He also reiterated that vaccine immunity from the primary dose series wanes after a certain number of months.
“Magpa-booster na tayo habang wala masyadong trabaho,” he said in a media briefing on Saturday. “Pinadali na natin ‘to na makakuha kayo ng booster shots sa mga mall, sa mga LRT stations, sa mga botika, at sa mga vaccination centers mismo.”
[Translation: Let’s get boosted while there isn’t as much work. We made it easier for the public to have access to booster shots in malls, LRT stations, pharmacies, and vaccination centers.]
Herbosa added that even those vacationing outside their areas of residence can get their booster shot, as long as they bring their vaccination card which shows they received their second dose at least three months ago.
The health expert also reiterated measures to prevent infection while traveling during the Holy Week break. They include refraining from eating during a flight or during long travels using public transportation.
He also advised Filipinos to maintain a safe social bubble.
“‘Yung mga kamag-anak natin na kasama natin talaga sa bahay, mas maganda sila lang ang kasama natin doon sa pasyalan natin [It would be better if the relatives we live with at home are the same ones we stick with in our travel destinations],” he said.
If it can’t be helped to meet with other family members, Herbosa reminded the public to adhere to minimum public health standards, such as wearing of face masks when not eating.
“And very important na mag-advise tayo sa isa’t isa ng ating [that we advise each other of our] vaccination status and booster status,” he added.
According to Herbosa, over 66 million Filipinos have already been fully vaccinated against COVID-19, but only around 12 million have received their booster shots.
Health officials said new coronavirus cases nationwide remain low, although the decline has been slow in recent days.
OCTA Research fellow Guido David noted the average number of daily confirmed infections stood at 342 this week, same as last week’s average.
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