Health experts warn against fake vaccines, unregulated medicines

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HEALTH officials in Central Visayas are warning the public about the dangers of fake vaccines and unregulated medicines.

Experts emphasized that only products obtained from authorized health facilities and licensed professionals are safe, while unverified products can trigger serious health complications.

Dr. Faith Ronolo-Curaraton, Family Section Head of the Department of Health-Central Visayas (DOH-7), said counterfeit vaccines are often sold in pharmacies that do not require prescriptions.

“Daghan kaayong mga nareceive nga [nagkaexperience] of adverse effect, and once amoa gitan-aw where do they buy? They buy it in certain drugstores nga dili mangayo og resita... Be careful lang gyud ta,” she warned.

She added that self-medicating with antibiotics or other medicines without a doctor’s guidance can lead to harmful reactions or worsen existing conditions.

She said reports have surfaced of individuals experiencing adverse effects after using vaccines and medicines obtained outside legitimate channels.

Health authorities emphasized that these “fly-by-night” products may contain harmful substances or fail to provide the protection they claim, leaving recipients vulnerable to serious complications.

Curaraton also noted that many people make their own decisions on which medicines to take, often misusing antibiotics and other prescription drugs.

She stressed that taking medicines without proper consultation could not only harm the individual but also contribute to broader public health risks, such as antibiotic resistance.

The warning comes as health officials also work to strengthen immunization programs across the region.

As part of efforts to combat preventable diseases, the Department of Health Central Visayas (DOH 7) is preparing to launch a school-based Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination initiative.

This program targets girls aged nine to 14, especially fourth-grade learners, and is also available to out-of-school youth through community-based immunization.

Joan Antonette Albito, head of the Non-Communicable Diseases Section of DOH-7, said the HPV program is designed to bring preventive services closer to women and girls, helping ensure they receive safe and effective protection.

Dr. Pherdes Galbo, an obstetrician-gynecologist, explained that vaccinating girls in this age group is highly effective because their immune systems are responsive and they are unlikely to have been exposed to HPV.

He said the vaccine is 70 to 80 percent effective and is intended to be part of routine childhood immunizations.

Despite the availability of licensed vaccines, Albito pointed out that barriers such as lack of awareness, limited access, and stigma prevent many women and girls from taking advantage of preventive services.

Misconceptions associating cervical cancer with sexual behavior discourage early screening, while financial and geographic constraints continue to hinder prevention efforts.

Central Visayas has seen a steady rise in cervical cancer cases, from 51 women aged 20 and above diagnosed or suspected in 2021 to 241 in 2024.

Mortality has also increased sharply, from 45 deaths in 2021 to 163 in 2024.

DOH-7 is addressing this by training barangay health centers to provide counseling, screening, and treatment, while mobile health teams reach remote communities.

Partnerships with local governments and organizations integrate these services into existing health programs, making preventive care more accessible.

Health officials stress that avoiding fake vaccines and medicines is just as important as participating in authorized immunization programs.(MyTVCebu)