The city government of Zamboanga is set to purchase the anti-Covid vaccines next year, according to City Health Officer Dr. Dulce Miravite.
Dr. Miravite told the virtual presser Friday that under the proposed 2021 Executive Budget, the amount of ₱ 200 million has been allocated for the purchase of approved and tested vaccines against the coronavirus disease 2019 or Covid-19.
She said these vaccines will be given to at least 70% to 80% of the city’s population, of which the priority are those in the most vulnerable sector.
However, the Sangguniang Panlungsod has not approved yet the budget, raising some concerns that the purchase of anti-Covid vaccines might not be possible next year.
Meanwhile, the city health officer disclosed that there is now a significant downtrend in the number of Covid cases in the city.
She attributed this downtrend to the increase in the number of contact tracers, fast lab test results and the strict compliance with the minimum health standards like social-distancing, wearing of face masks, face shields, hand washing, etc.
Notwithstanding, Miravite has appealed to the public to continue practicing the health protocols.
(Source: Virtual press briefing of Dr. Dulce Miravite)