COVID-19 vaccine for minors, are we ready? UP webinar asks

| Written by Deina Blancaflor

The University of the Philippines (UP), in partnership with UP Manila NIH National Telehealth Center, and in cooperation with UP Philippine General Hospital (PGH), invites you to join the fight against COVID-19.

This Friday, October 1, from 12pm-2pm, join us for a special topic episode of the “Stop COVID Deaths” webinar series. Titled “COVID-19 Vaccines for Children: Ating Alamin”, the webinar will discuss the latest news on COVID-19 vaccine safety in minors ages 12-17 years old, the country’s plans and preparations for its possible rollout soon, and our current vaccination coverage overall.

Last month, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved COMINARTY (COVID-19 Vaccine, mRNA) made by Pfizer/BionTech for use on children under an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA). The World Health Organization’s (WHO) Strategic Advisory Group of Experts (SAGE) have also advised that children between 12 and 15 years old who are at high risk may be offered this vaccine alongside other priority groups.

However, with our country’s limited supply of COVID-19 vaccines, the question remains, do we have enough to start vaccinating children?

Speakers will be coming from the pediatric sector. Dr. Ma. Liza Antoinette Gonzales, a specialist in pediatric infections from PGH, will talk about the latest scientific evidence on the safety and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines for children.

Meanwhile, Dr. Maria Consorcia Dizon, member of the Interim National Immunization Team, will discuss the epidemiology of children and COVID-19.

Dr. Benito Atienza, President of Philippine Medical Association, and Dr. Jennifer Liquido, a pediatrician from Delaware, USA, will also share their own perspectives and reactions.

The opening and closing remarks will be given by Dr. Efren Balanag, President of the Philippine Pediatric Society’s Northern Luzon Chapter, and Dr. Carmencita Padilla, Chancellor of UP Manila, respectively.

The “Stop COVID Deaths” webinar series is the Philippines’ first and only frontline-focused medical webinar series. It pioneered the discussion, dissemination, and adoption of knowledge on COVID-19 treatment and management.

Register here and watch the live stream via TVUP’s accounts on Facebook and YouTube. You may also follow our account on Twitter for live tweets during the day.