Previously launched in 2013, the new Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV) is now part of the regular vaccines to be given to infants below one year of age. The integration of this vaccine is a monumental milestone in the EPI. CARAGA and ARMM are the first regions to have received the Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccines, in complement to the current Rotavirus Vaccine which was introduced in 2010. The Pneumococcal Vaccine will address the need for better protection of infants against pneumococcal pneumonia.
“By involving the private sector in the fight against pneumococcal pneumonia, we hope to further curb the incidents of pneumonia in the region. In 2012, data shows that Pneumonia toped as the leading cause of under-five mortality in Caraga region.[1] He deem not to simply reduce it, but to control it as well.” – Director Minerva P. Molon, CHD Caraga.
