THE Department of Health (DOH) on Friday, June 4, 2021, assured that all cold storage facilities for coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) vaccines and the local vaccination centers are prepared for any disasters that may occur during the rainy season.

In a virtual press briefing, DOH Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said they have already given directives to cold storage facility operators and vaccination centers to prepare the necessary protocols in cases of power outages, flooding and other disasters.

"We have already issued a reminder regarding power outages, flooding, strong rains, so that it won't affect our vaccination program," said Vergeire.

"For these places, right now, they are ready for these kinds of disasters," she added.

Among the measures is having power generators on standby in cold storage facilities.

"We made sure that in cases of rotational brownouts, these facilities must have generators and even back-up generators so that the vaccines won't be spoiled," said Vergeire.

The health official also related that they have tasked their field personnel to look at possible alternative vaccination sites.

"This way, our vaccination program can continue amid the calamity, like strong rains," said Vergeire.

Earlier in the week, Tropical Storm Dante brought heavy rains and flash floods across the country. More typhoons are expected.

Metro Manila and parts of Luzon were also hit by rotational outages due to low power supply. (HDT / SunStar Philippines)