[OPINION] Are Vaccines the Key to Face-to-Face Classes’ Safety?
Written by Ashley Cabria
Since March 2020, our country, the Philippines, has been under the world’s longest lockdown. For over two years, this occurrence closed the schools and began the online learning system. However, online education comes with a slew of drawbacks. This includes students’ efforts to adjust to the new learning environment, problems affecting students’ mental health, job losses, lack of requisite school equipment and devices, difficulty accessing stable internet connection, and many other issues. Because of the outcry from students, the government is “forced” to take immediate measures to reopen face-to-face classes as soon as possible.
WATCH: School Vaccinations — What you need to know about vaccines at school | by AboutKidsHealth via YouTube
We have been lagging behind other countries regarding vaccinations. However, as of October 21, 2021, over 25.1 million people had been fully vaccinated against the COVID-19 virus. The vaccine program began in March 2021, and the country intends to have immunized 58 million people by the end of the year. On the other hand, vaccinations for minors aged 12 to 17 are being implemented in anticipation of the likely reopening of face-to-face classes. The pilot run for this began on October 15, 2021. It is currently being done in two phases. The 15-to-17-year-olds first, followed by those aged 12 to 14.
READ: How the pilot run of COVID-19 vaccinations for minors will be done in Metro Manila | by Rappler
During this pandemic, vaccination is one of the most efficient ways to save lives. It protects us from the virus by acting as a physical barrier. It strengthens our bodies so that we have a lower probability of contracting the virus. When vaccinated people contract COVID, the virus’s impact is reduced, and they recover faster due to their immunization.
OPINION
Therefore, I am convinced that immunizations must be required for face-to-face classes, not only for the student’s well-being and welfare but also for the teachers and school employees. We should not be hesitant to become immunized because it will help both us and those around us. “Prevention is better than cure,” as the adage goes.
THE AUTHOR
Hi there! I am Ashley Faye J. Cabria of HUMSS 1A. I am an opinion writer of Tigercubs. I consider myself to be a cheerful and goal-driven person. My hobbies include watching K-dramas and animes; journaling and reading books. I also enjoy playing instruments such as the ukulele and bass.
Recently, I’ve also been trying my hand at watercolor painting. Tigercubs is an excellent platform for me to put my love for writing into practice and enhance my skills. It allows me to broaden my social awareness and learn more about current events across the world. As a writer, I consider myself to be enthusiastic and eager to learn. I want to utilize my pen and paper to inspire, enlighten, and empower others by being their voice.
