‘Cocoon strategy’ protects children vs. COVID-19 — DOH

By Joedie Mae Boliver

CALOOCAN (PIA) – The Department of Health (DOH) said on Tuesday, August 17, that the ‘cocoon strategy,’ or vaccinating adult and vulnerable population can protect children against COVID-19.

“Ang Cocoon Strategy ay ang stratehiya na kung mababakunahan po natin iyong mga nakapalibot sa ating mga kabataan lalo iyong mga kasama sa bahay (if we will vaccinate the adult family members), we will also be able to protect the children inside their homes,” Health Undersecretary Rosario Vergeire said in a press briefing.

Health experts do not recommend vaccination of children yet since this will affect the vaccine supply allocated for priority groups like senior citizens or persons with comorbidities.

“The mortality and morbidity data across age groups do not support the urgency to prioritize pediatric vaccination as of this time,” Vergeire said.

The DOH emphasized that following the Prevent, Detect, Isolate, Treat, and Reintegrate (PDITR) strategy still works in protecting the younger population.

“Ang PDITR strategy ay epektibo kahit po sa ating kabataan at tumutulong mapababa ang kaso ng COVID-19 sa ating mga lugar, (The PDITR strategy is effective even among younger populations and helps in lowering COVID-19 cases in our communities),” Vergeire cited.

The health department urged eligible individuals and priority groups to complete their jabs because vaccines protect the vaccinated and those around them against COVID-19. (JMB/PIA-IDPD)