1,500 minors vaccinated in Metro Manila; few adverse events reported

Over 1,500 minors aged 15 to 17 with existing health conditions received COVID-19 vaccines during the initial week of the pediatric vaccination program in Metro Manila.

Vaccine czar Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. stated that only four out of the 1,509 vaccinated minors reported adverse events, all of which were minor.

These adverse events included dizziness, increased blood pressure, stress, and allergies, according to Galvez.

The pilot vaccination phase, which began on October 15, was described as a success by Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire, indicating trust from parents and young individuals.

Some minors reported experiencing side effects that were promptly addressed, including one case of temporary increased blood pressure that stabilized within two hours.

The vaccination program for minors aged 12 to 17 started with eight hospitals and has since expanded to 13 more local government hospitals.