Western Visayas is set to receive 289,885 doses of Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccines targeted for senior citizens and highly urbanized cities in the region, Dr. Adriano Suba-an, DOH 6 regional director, said Friday, July 16.
The first batch of single-shot Janssen anti-COVID- vaccines consisting of 1,606,600 doses arrived in the Philippines Friday, the National Task Force Against COVID-19 announced.
The vaccines produced by American pharmaceutical firm Johnson & Johnson were donated by the United States government through the COVAX facility.
Suba-an said on top of the Johnson & Johnson vaccines other brands are also arriving in the region this month.
The vaccines are safe and effective, and provide protection from getting severe COVID-19 disease that may result to hospitalization and death, Suba-an said.
However, even when fully vaccinated, the public is reminded to continue practicing the minimum public health standards such as wearing of face mask, face shield, physical distancing and avoiding crowds, he said.
“Avoid super spreader activities, mass gatherings should be avoided,” Suba-an added.
These health protocols remain effective to avert the spread of infection, he said.*