Achieving herd immunity against COVID-19 in the Philippines

Abstract

Achieving herd immunity is crucial for the Philippines, which continues to struggle and recover from the grave impacts of the pandemic, especially regarding its health and socioeconomic sectors. As of November 2022, 65% Filipinos have been vaccinated, nearing the 70% target. Despite this progress, vaccination efforts in the Philippines remain challenged with vaccine hesitancy, unequal distribution, and limitations of the cold chain logistics. This commentary sheds light on the current state of COVID-19 in the Philippines and discusses the importance and challenges of its pandemic response, in the pursuit of herd immunity within a developing country.