30 April 2021
More than a year since COVID-19 put the world in a state of pandemic, vaccines have now been developed and the shots that will give an extra layer of protection are currently being administered around the globe. Alongside this progress, however, are swirling questions from the public stemming from unfamiliarity and uncertainty about COVID-19 immunization.
To aid in disseminating accurate information about COVID-19 vaccination, Our Lady of Fatima University (OLFU), through its Social Orientation and Community Involvement Office (SOCI), staged a free webinar titled “ResbakUNA para sa Buhay” last 30 April 2021 via the Zoom platform and Facebook livestreaming with Dr. Graciela Fuentes, University Physician of the Nueva Ecija Campus, as the resource speaker.
Formally welcoming the viewers was University President, Dr. Caroline Marian S. Enriquez. Thanking everyone, she encouraged the public to get vaccinated as soon as the opportunity arises, stressing that all available COVID-19 vaccines can prevent the severe form of the disease. Noting that one may still get infected with the virus even after receiving the vaccine, she also reminded everyone to continue observing health and safety protocols with discipline.
Dr. Fuentes began her talk by introducing her three objectives: (1) raise awareness about COVID-19 vaccinations; (2) clarify issues on adverse effects; and (3) determine the benefits versus non-vaccination, all of which were included in her in-depth discussion. She likewise explained how vaccines are necessary to build herd immunity against the virus, and how vaccine safety is ensured by governing bodies. Moreover, Dr. Fuentes addressed common queries on who are eligible to receive a vaccine in terms of underlying health conditions.
“Kung walang magpapabakuna, paano tayo makakakuha ng syento porsyentong effectiveness?” said Dr. Fuentes as she closed her segment. “A vaccine with 100% efficacy will have zero effectiveness if no one will get vaccinated.”
Two guests were also invited in the webinar to share their vaccination experiences. They are Dominic Hermano, a registered nurse who is also enrolled in OLFU’s Doctor of Public Health program, and James Belbes, Head of Housekeeping at the Fatima University Medical Center (FUMC). With SOCI head, Dexter Basunillo, the gentlemen talked about what led them to the decision of getting the vaccine, their experience on the day of vaccination, as well as the minor side effects they felt. Both of them strongly recommended immunization against COVID-19 to protect families and communities.
“Huwag na po tayong mag-dalawang isip; magpabakuna na po tayo para makatulong rin na matapos ang pandemya, para na rin satin, sa pamilya natin, sa mga katrabaho at mga kahalubilo,” Belbes said. Hermano also believes that getting vaccinated is “one of the best contributions” that each person can give in combatting the pandemic.
Dr. Fuentes and Dr. Enriquez also had another opportunity to engage with the audience by answering specific questions live. Aside from students, parents, and alumni, the viewers consisted of members of OLFU’s partner communities.
In solidarity with the entire nation in the battle against COVID-19, OLFU is ever committed to educate about public health and safety, and to advocate credible solutions that will help the Philippines rise from the pandemic’s challenges.
