As flu cases continue to rise during the holiday season, a lawmaker has called on the Department of the Interior and Local Government to direct all local government units (LGU) to roll out free flu vaccinations for senior citizens, warning that crowded places and large gatherings put them at higher risk of infection.

United Senior Citizens Partylist Rep. Milagros Aquino-Magsaysay urged LGUs to take a more proactive role in ensuring the health and well-being of seniors.

“LGUs should not rely solely on national guidance. They have the power to lead and implement vaccination drives, ensuring that seniors have access to free flu vaccines,” Aquino-Magsaysay said.

The lawmaker noted that while the Department of Health has clarified that there is currently no flu outbreak, LGUs must remain vigilant in protecting their communities, stressing that unvaccinated seniors remain at serious risk.

“Flu accounts for 50 to 70 percent of hospitalizations among adults aged 65 and above. One hospitalization can cost families P10,000 to P30,000, an added burden, especially for families with limited income,” she said.

“By making flu vaccinations accessible at the community level, LGUs can help reduce spikes in cases, prevent hospitals from being overwhelmed, and ease the burden on families,” she added.

Aquino-Magsaysay said this is especially important for seniors with chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart or chronic kidney disease. As a senior herself, she emphasized the importance of timely protection.

“Vaccination protects seniors from serious flu-related complications. This holiday season, let’s give our elders the gift of safety so they can celebrate with their families without fear,” she said.

She also noted that beyond the threat of the flu, the World Health Organization recently reported that the Philippines recorded the third-highest number of tuberculosis cases worldwide, making TB one of the country’s top killers.

The overlap of flu and TB can be dangerous for seniors with weakened immune systems, underscoring the need for proactive measures by LGUs.