Question & AnswerQ&A (Republic Act No. 7846)
The main purpose of Republic Act No. 7846 is to require compulsory immunization against Hepatitis-B for infants and children below eight (8) years old, amending Presidential Decree No. 996 and appropriating funds for this purpose.
Republic Act No. 7846 amended Presidential Decree No. 996.
The basic immunization services include: (a) BCG Vaccination against tuberculosis; (b) Inoculation against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis; (c) Oral poliomyelitis immunization; (d) Protection against measles; (e) Immunization against rubella; (f) Immunization against Hepatitis-B; (g) other basic immunization services for infants and children below eight years as determined by the Secretary of Health.
The Secretary of Health determines the other basic immunization services by issuing a department circular.
Newborn infants of women with Hepatitis-B must be given immunization against Hepatitis-B within twenty-four (24) hours after birth.
It is compulsory for infants and children below eight (8) years old.
The necessary funds are to be included in the General Appropriations Act of the year following its enactment into law and thereafter.
It takes effect upon its approval and completion of its publication in at least two newspapers of general circulation.
Yes, RA 7846 includes immunization against tuberculosis, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, poliomyelitis, measles, rubella, and also other diseases as determined by the Secretary of Health.
The amendment explicitly includes immunization against Hepatitis-B as a compulsory immunization service for infants and children below eight years old, reflecting updated public health priorities.