By Yvaña Welch Deroña
The University Health Services (UHS) of the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) held its annual Bakuna Caravan on Thursday, February 27. Approximately 104 participants received essential immunizations at the event.
The program offered quadrivalent flu, pneumococcal, varicella (chickenpox), and shingles vaccines, with the pneumococcal shot emerging as the most in-demand among attendees. The event was part of UHS’ ongoing initiative to provide accessible healthcare services to students, faculty, staff, and local residents, ensuring that more people are protected from preventable diseases.
A patient receives a vaccine at the UHS Bakuna Caravan. Photo by Yvaña Welch A. Deroña.
Pharmacist Felicidad Navarro highlighted some challenges faced during the event, particularly managing patients with high blood pressure and scheduling concerns. Since vaccinations require pre-screening to ensure patient safety, some individuals had to wait longer before receiving their shots. However, she emphasized the importance of immunization, especially for students who are frequently exposed to crowded environments.
“Mas mainam na may proteksyon laban sa flu at chickenpox, lalo na sa mga estudyante na laging exposed sa maraming tao,” Navarro said, urging students to get vaccinated to minimize their risk of contracting infectious diseases.
Among those who availed of the vaccination services was Josephine Rayos, who attended with her husband after reserving slots through the UHS Facebook page. She stressed the need for vaccination among seniors, recognizing how aging increases vulnerability to serious illnesses.
“Dahil ‘di ba kapag senior na, mas prone sa sakit? Kaya kailangan din para rin ma-lessen impact sa amin,” Rayos shared after receiving her pneumococcal shot.
The annual Bakuna Caravan is part of UHS’ broader commitment to public health and preventive medicine. By offering accessible vaccinations, the program helps reduce the risk of outbreaks and encourages a proactive approach to health among the community and beyond.
UHS announced that a second batch of vaccinations will be available in the second week of March, giving more individuals the opportunity to receive their shots. Further details will be posted on the UHS Facebook page, where interested participants can stay updated on registration and scheduling information.
As the Bakuna Caravan continues to be an essential part of UPLB UHS’ healthcare initiatives, they remain dedicated to ensuring that quality medical services are within reach for all. Through these initiatives, UHS reaffirms its role in fostering a healthier, more resilient community.
