A Shot For Love: Child Immunization for Protection

Women have but one thing on their minds as soon as they don the cape of motherhood: to protect their children and their families at all costs.

From eating healthy, giving them the cleanest environments, and allowing them only supervised interactions with other children, mothers tend to be hypervigilant of their children’s health. Have you ever seen a mother at a playground? They hover, they watch, but they never encroach. They protect from afar, but they protect fiercely.

Immunization - one of the ways mothers offer their children protection - is somewhat the same when you think about it. You get vaccinated once, even before a disease affects you. It helps protect you even when you’re far away from the possibility of contracting vaccine-preventable childhood diseases like measles, mumps, and rubella, among others.

Vaccines have been shown to help save lives. According to the World Health Organization, vaccines help reduce the risks of getting a disease by working with your body’s natural defenses to build protection. Over the years, immunization has paved the way for people of all ages to develop more robust immune systems.

With the help of vaccines, the infection and mortality of historically life-threatening diseases such as polio and smallpox have lowered dramatically. In turn, the world has become closer to realizing a society without fatal childhood diseases. As a result, more children have enjoyed healthy and happy childhoods by getting immunized.

The importance of immunization to a healthy society

Amid the ongoing pandemic, millions of lives have been spared from the highly infectious COVID-19 virus with the help of immunization. Because of COVID-19 vaccines, the world is slowly but surely going back to normal. There is light at the end of the tunnel, but action needs to be done first. Soon, children will enjoy the outdoors without fear of catching COVID-19 or any of the other vaccine-preventable diseases.

For the world to truly become free from life-threatening diseases, there needs to be a focus on the importance of immunization. The Philippines can achieve herd immunity from various diseases when more people get vaccinated, including our children.

According to the Philippine Statistics Authority, children make up approximately a third of the Philippine population, and it’s vital that they receive their vaccines on time. Adhering to an on-time vaccination schedule helps fortify their immune system. It allows them to enjoy life without fear of acquiring life-threatening diseases that can be avoided in the first place. As a parent, it is a great act of love to look out for one’s child in this way.

People fear what they don’t understand, but the fact remains that vaccines work. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), vaccines save up to 3 million lives each year from VPDs worldwide. That’s why it is important for children to get vaccinated from their infancy stage to help them build a stronger immune system. More patients can breathe easy knowing their children are safe and healthy.

Empowering through education

To empower more Filipino children with life-saving vaccines, MSD in the Philippines has been actively pushing its battlecry to mothers to take charge of their children’s health and Call The Shots. Call the Shots PH is an awareness campaign that aims to protect expectant parents and their children from vaccine-preventable diseases and empower them to make the right decisions for their children’s health.

Since 2020, this campaign has equipped more Filipino families with fact-based information to educate the public about the importance of immunization. Call The Shots has helped dispel confusion and misconceptions about vaccines. The campaign also hosts free webinars featuring doctors and public health authorities so that parents can get fact-based advice straight from the experts. In turn, more parents have been encouraged to have their children vaccinated.

As parents, you want to give your children the best protection against life-threatening diseases such as polio, smallpox, and COVID-19. Driving your children to lead active lifestyles and have a balanced diet can do wonders. You can also take care of your children better by making the crucial decision of getting them vaccinated.

To ensure your children get all the right vaccines on time, it’s important you maintain a close relationship with your pediatrician. Your doctor can provide you with the best advice regarding vaccines and other health-related concerns so you can give your children the best care possible.

By keeping a close relationship with your pediatrician and adhering to an on-time vaccination schedule, you and your children can confidently face the future. So call your pediatrician today and ask about the 2022 Childhood Immunization Schedule to help protect your kids from vaccine-preventable diseases! For more information, you may visit https://www.facebook.com/CallTheShotsPH/.

SM Supermalls hits 5 million COVID-19 jabs, opens more vax sites for minors

SM Supermalls has yet again marked a back-to-back milestone in its pursuit to help end COVID-19 in the Philippines: surpassing the five-millionth mark of COVID-19 jabs and the opening of more SM malls as pediatric vaccination sites outside Metro Manila.

“Breaching the five-millionth mark is a testament to our commitment to providing our communities with accessible and convenient vaccination sites. We thank our partner LGUs for this partnership are happy to provide our malls as pediatric vaccination centers for minors belonging to the 12-17 age group.” said Steven Tan, president of SM Supermalls.

During the opening ceremony of Paranaque City LGU’s “Bida Rin ang Bata” vaccination center in SM City Sucat on November 3, a total of 588 youngsters were given their first dose of vaccines. To date, SM Supermalls has vaccinated over 6,000 pedriatric constituents in 15 pediatric mall vaccination sites.

Present during the launch were Sec. Carlito Galvez Jr., National Task Force (NTF) against Covid-19 Chief Implementer and Vaccine czar; Assistant Secretary Elmer Punzalan and Assistant Regional Director Aleli Sudiacial, Department of Health; Paranaque Mayor Edwin Olivarez; Paranaque 1st District Rep. Eric Olivarez; IATF Assistant Regional Director Paz Corrales; Dra. Evangeline Labines, CESO V, School Division Superintendent; and, Dra. Olga Virtusio, Head of Paranaque CHO.

Mayor Olivarez shared that they target to inoculate 70% of their pediatric constituents this November. “To win the war against COVID-19, we will be working hand-in-hand with our partners, including SM Supermalls, in getting to a pandemic free Paranaque.” he furthered.

The phased approach to vaccinating the A3 category began last October 15, prioritizing minors with comorbidities. DOH emphasized that the rollout of inoculation among children and minors was needed to help the country achieve herd immunity.

“We heal as one,” said Dr. Aleli Sudiacal, Assistant Regional Director DOH-MMCHD. “With the intensive rollout of the pediatric immunization in the country, we shall continue working together with the private sector and LGUs since we are now in the post-recovery stage.”

SM Supermalls is the only mall venue partner as the DOH rolled out the second phase of the A3 immunization, starting at SM Megamall last October 21 and at SM Sucat on November 3. Several other SM Malls are expected to become safe and convenient Pediatric Vaccination Centers in the next weeks.

With its long-standing commitment to ensuring the health and safety of the public, SM continues to provide not just a #SafeMalling experience to shoppers, but also a convenient and accessible venue where their communities can get vaccinated.

For more information and up-to-date news on vaccination schedules at the SM malls in your LGU, visit http://www.smsupermalls.com/or follow @smsupermalls on all social media accounts.

Vaccination Efforts Pave the Way for Economic Recovery

MANILA, OCTOBER 21, 2021 - In early 2020, the onset of the pandemic posted big challenges as businesses struggled to stay afloat due to strict lockdowns and social distancing measures. Shopee, the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia and Taiwan, responded accordingly by helping MSMEs shift online easily and seamlessly. And with vaccination programs ongoing, Shopee continues to aid economic recovery by mounting community initiatives focused on increasing vaccination education and uptake to fight against  COVID-19. These programs include Shopee’s Vaccination Center Support drive, Shopee #FullyVaxxed Package, and the Department of Health’s (DOH) Resbakuna campaign. 

With fewer cases during the first half of 2021, the country saw great potential for a rebound as there were less restrictions allowing mobility and economic activity.  Because of this, the Philippines continues to push for the health and safety of its community through its vaccination efforts, with more than 51 million doses administered.  When the health of the population improves due to the vaccine, it serves as an avenue for educational achievement, growth in work opportunities, improved social functions, and a better chance in economic recovery. 

Shopee, in partnership with different brands and organizations, launched vaccine-centric initiatives to support the country’s journey towards a healthier and safer Philippines. 

Vaccine Education through Resbakuna: Kasangga ng Bida

During the first quarter of 2021, many Filipinos were resistant to the vaccine due to three key reasons: concerns about potential side effects, uncertainty about efficacy, and skepticism. In partnership with DOH, Shopee educated the community about COVID-19 vaccines through a dedicated in-app microsite and social media initiatives. Through Shopee Live, DOH representatives Dr. Dominic “Meng” Maddumba and Beverly C. Ho, MD, MPH, Director IV, at the DOH Health Promotion Bureau, raised vaccine awareness to combat vaccine hesitancy and also discussed the facts about the vaccine’s safety and efficacy. Shopee recorded almost a total of 50,000 unique views for both live stream sessions.

 

Providing a more pleasant inoculation experience with Vaccination Center Support 

Shopee partnered with local government units of Makati and Taguig to provide Filipinos with a more comfortable vaccination experience. Residents and frontliners from both cities received food and health kits from partner brands. These included snacks from Del Monte, Perfetti Van Melle, Dutchmill Soy, Monde Nissin, and Rebisco; bottled water from Hope in a Bottle; and health kits from Mighty Clean, Colgate, and Cosmetique Asia; and units of Symphony Air Coolers. With the positive reception of the public for the first two initiatives, Shopee aims to roll out the same project in Quezon City later this year with a total of 4,500 potential beneficiaries for all three cities.   

Incentives for the fully-vaccinated with the  #FullyVaxxed Package 

From July to September 2021, the Shopee #FullyVaxxed Package offered fully vaccinated Filipinos a special bundle they can use for personal needs and encourage others to complete both doses. With more than 15,000 sign-ups, users enjoyed free shipping, discount vouchers from Shopee, and discount vouchers from various brands such as Manuka Health, Photobook, Bo’s Coffee, KonsultaMD, Uni-Care, The Smile Bar, Converse, Planet Sports, Globe, and Marketplace sellers such as Bella’s Online Store, ED.Kids, Flagship Store, and more. 

Martin Yu, Director at Shopee Philippines, said, “Shopee is committed to helping the nation’s efforts towards positive economic recovery as much as we can so that everyone can benefit from a safer and healthier society. We would also like to extend our gratitude to all our partners who have lent their support in many ways. Together our efforts can make a bigger impact.” 

Buy Load, Pay Bills, and Scan to Pay with ShopeePay. Download the Shopee app for free via the App Store or Google Play.

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About Shopee

 Shopee is the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia & Taiwan. Shopee connects shoppers, brands, and sellers across Asia and other fast-growing markets, empowering anyone to buy and sell anywhere and at any time. 

 

Shopee offers an easy, secure, and engaging experience that is enjoyed by millions of people daily. It offers a wide product assortment, supported by integrated payments and logistics, as well as popular entertainment features tailored for each market. Shopee is also a key contributor to the region’s digital economy with a firm commitment to helping brands and entrepreneurs succeed in e-commerce.

 

Shopee is a part of Sea Limited (NYSE:SE), a leading global consumer internet company. In addition to Shopee, Sea’s other core businesses include its digital entertainment arm, Garena, and digital financial services arm, SeaMoney. Sea’s mission is to better the lives of consumers and small businesses with technology.

Get Protected, Be Rewarded! Check Out Shopee's #FullyVaxxed Package

MANILA, AUGUST 27, 2021 - Fully vaccinated? Every person who completes their second dose brings us a step closer to safety against the COVID-19 virus. In addition to protecting yourself and your loved ones, you can receive an exclusive digital package from Shopee! 

Enjoy free shipping and discount vouchers once you register for Shopee’s #FullyVaxxed Package. Whether it’s personal care products or groceries, keep your eyes peeled for discounts up to 15% off from our partner brands such as SC Johnson, Colgate-Palmolive, Bo’s Coffee, Airqueen Philippines, Hygienix, and more.

To sign-up, visit the Shopee Bayanihan: #FullyVaxxed microsite by simply searching for “fully vaxxed” on your Shopee app or going to https://shopee.ph/m/fullyvaxxed-package; submit your vaccination card for proof of vaccine completion; and wait for 5-7 working days to be verified. Once you get verification from Shopee, here is a list of some deals you can look forward to:

Restock your daily self-care essentials.

Maintain good hygiene and cultivate healthy habits with these great deals! Stay clean with Hygienix Germ Kill Alcohol, a disinfectant that effectively kills germs and soothes the skin at the same time. Stay fresh with Colgate’s Sensitive Toothpaste, a must-have to fight bad breath and to prevent cavities. Stay protected with Airqueen’s Nanofiber Mask, designed for everyone and everyday wear. This product comes with elastic earloops to guarantee a secure fit.

Groceries to grab.

Grocery items come in handy now more than ever. When you need to eliminate odors and germs on multi-surfaces of your home, the SC Johnson FamilyGuard Disinfectant Aerosol gives you the power to do so. An immune system under attack calls for the Manuka Health Immune Response, which contains researched ingredients that reduce symptoms and boosts recovery. When you need a quick caffeine fix, delight in Bo's Coffee Iced Brew Latte. Not only is it made from the finest coffee beans, but it is also a classic favorite known to deliver happiness in a glass bottle.

Spruce up your style and space.

If you are ready to take ordinary items to the next level, these deals have been made especially for you. Available in six colors and two styles, the Flagship Mask Lanyard is the best accessory to keep your face mask secure and clean when not in use. Find satisfaction in doing household chores with the lightweight and absorbent KC EZ Cleaning Cloth to wipe stains and clean surfaces as efficiently as possible. Repair motors from the comfort of your home with a wide selection of quality tools from the SJW 46pcs Professional Tool Kit.

New Shopee users can also use the voucher code FULLYVAXXED to enjoy 100% off, ₱50 cap, minimum spend of ₱50 until September 26, 2021.

For more information about Shopee Bayanihan: #FullyVaxxed Package, visit https://shopee.ph/m/fullyvaxxed-package

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About Shopee

Shopee is the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia & Taiwan. Shopee connects shoppers, brands, and sellers across Asia and other fast-growing markets, empowering anyone to buy and sell anywhere and at any time. 

Shopee offers an easy, secure, and engaging experience that is enjoyed by millions of people daily. It offers a wide product assortment, supported by integrated payments and logistics, as well as popular entertainment features tailored for each market. Shopee is also a key contributor to the region’s digital economy with a firm commitment to helping brands and entrepreneurs succeed in e-commerce.

Shopee is a part of Sea Limited (NYSE:SE), a leading global consumer internet company. In addition to Shopee, Sea’s other core businesses include its digital entertainment arm, Garena, and digital financial services arm, SeaMoney. Sea’s mission is to better the lives of consumers and small businesses with technology.

Swim, Bike, Run Towards a Healthy Lifestyle

Fitness enthusiasts of all ages got together for a fun Sunday morning of swim, bike, run at the first HMO-powered triathlon, MediCard’s Sprint Tri, in Fontana Leisure Park in Clark, Pampanga.

The triathlon included a 600-m swim, 20-km bike, and 5-km run.  Athletes took several laps in the Olympic-sized pool and went on to a one-loop bike course around the Clark grounds, and a single-loop run on the rolling paths of the resort. It also featured a relay category for family, friends, or teammates.

Joining the event were MediCard president Dr. Nicky Montoya and COO Atty. Jon S. Montoya to advocate for a healthy and active lifestyle and to further show their dedication towards providing accessible healthcare to Filipinos.

“This is one of the best ways to encourage everyone – from little kids to adults, even the more senior ones – to exercise and move,” said MediCard president Nicky Montoya.

Participants of all ages finished strong with Adrian Thomas Dionisio nabbing the top spot of the 15-17 age group as he clocked in at 1:07:46, while Ian Banzon from the women’s category topped the 35-39 age group as she finished at 1:19:53.

Through the MediCard Sprint Tri, many beginner athletes were able to start achieving optimal health while having fun.

Vaccination Myths and Facts

 

You may have completed your vaccinations when you were a child, but do you know that vaccines are not only for kids but for adults, too? Vaccines are among the most cost-effective health interventions available. They help ensure optimum health.

“Vaccines provide heightened protection against diseases, disabilities and even death. They prepare the body to fight diseases without exposing the person to the symptoms. Many believe immunizations are for children only. But you are never too old to get vaccinated. Newer vaccines are being developed and booster shots may be necessary to maintain the efficacy of certain vaccines. Vaccination is important especially if you have a chronic disease, are pregnant, sexually active, or if your work requires you to travel to places where you can be exposed to different diseases,” says MediCard president and CEO Dr. Nicky Montoya.

MediCard, a leading HMO provider in the country, debunks some myths on vaccinations:

Myth: Vaccines are for children only.

Fact: Vaccines don’t offer lifetime immunity to diseases; they stimulate antibody production. Almost all vaccines wear off after 5-10 years. Getting vaccinated as an adult is just as important as getting it when you are young because you might be at risk for a new or different disease. The vaccinations you need are determined by factors such as age, lifestyle, health conditions, travel, and previous immunizations. To find out what vaccines you need, consult your doctor.

Myth: Vaccines are ineffective and harmful.

Fact: Vaccines are effective and safe. They go through comprehensive testing before they are approved for general use. They are also continuously monitored for safety and effectiveness. For those who worry that vaccines will cause serious side effects, Dr. Montoya says such cases are very rare. Normal reactions to vaccination include redness, pain, and swelling in the body part where the shot was given.

Myth: Vaccines weaken the immune system.

Fact: Vaccines actually strengthen the immune system and help fight diseases. Vaccines strengthen the immune system by safely introducing an antigen, a substance that triggers the production of antibodies needed to neutralize viruses and bacteria. Vaccines also stimulate defense mechanisms that provide protection against specific diseases. Fears that vaccines can overload the immune system are unfounded because a healthy person’s immune system can recognize and handle thousands of organisms at once.

                                                                                                                          

Myth: Vaccinations are not needed if you live a healthy lifestyle.

Fact: Good hygiene, a balanced diet and an active lifestyle can help prevent the spread of diseases, but you are still exposed to germs and viruses. This is why getting vaccinated is encouraged, even if you live a healthy lifestyle, as it provides a significant level of protection from diseases.

                                                  

Learn more about vaccinations. MediCard has several free-standing clinics located in key cities nationwide that offer consultations, tests and vaccinations. Visit a MediCard clinic near you or check out their website at www.medicardphils.com for more information.