THE Cebu City Council has approved a P5-million budget to purchase additional anti-rabies vaccines to address a growing demand.
In a letter, Dr. Alma Corpin, chief of the City Health Department (CHD), requested 37,984 vaccines to serve patients until the end of the year.
Councilor Mary Ann delos Santos, who sponsored the resolution for the additional budget for anti-rabies vaccines, said the CHD accommodates 1,187 patients every month.
Corpin said a patient needs at least four vaccines.
“The Animal Bite Center of CHD is experiencing a shortage of stocks in anti-rabies vaccines, with only 2,000 vials left,” a portion of the resolution read.
Suspended distribution
Corpin said that most of their anti-rabies supplies were given by the Department of Health but they’ve suspended distribution due to the controversy involving the supplier.
CHD initially needed P21.6 million for the purchase, but the City has only around P19 million of Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (Pagcor) funds, where the item will be charged.
Delos Santos said the City is allowed to use Pagcor funds for the purchase of anti-rabies vaccines since it is related to the delivery of basic health services.
Mayor Tomas Osmeña has already approved charging the purchase to the Pagcor funds. (RVC)