Says she welcomes any probe into the Dengvaxia snafu
(Eagle News) — Former Health Secretary Janet Garin has said she was ready to face any investigation in connection with the dengue vaccination program snafu.
She noted, however, that the program plan started even before she became health secretary under former President Benigno Aquino III’s administration.
“We implemented it in accordance with (World Health Organization) guidance and recommendations. Even before the official release of the SAGE [WHO Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunization], there were ongoing meetings and consultations between experts, WHO and (Department of Health) technical officials,” she said.
She said “we fully cooperated and consulted with WHO prior to the implementation of this program.”
“With the desire to resolve this deadly virus, the Department started the vaccination program which has until now been seen to be strongly beneficial to 9 out of 10 Filipinos,” Garin said.
“I will answer all questions at the right time, in the appropriate forum. I will also await clarity from DOH and WHO as they are the authorities on this. In the event that there will be authorities who will point culpability to me, I am ready to face the consequences,” Garin said.
Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre has ordered an inquiry into the Dengvaxia snafu that started when Sanofi admitted the vaccine could cause “serious cases” in those who received the drug but were not previously afflicted by the virus.
