DOH: No need to mandate COVID-19 boosters yet

The Department of Health (DOH) on Tuesday said it does not see the need to mandate COVID-19 booster shots for the general public despite low uptake.

Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire noted that past strategies, such as nudges and incentives, have been effective in increasing vaccination rates without mandates.

In contrast, infectious disease expert Dr. Rontgene Solante on Monday called for mandatory booster shots to increase protection amid rising COVID-19 cases and the reopening of schools and workplaces.

As of July 11, only about 21% of fully vaccinated individuals have received their boosters.