Law Summary
Scope of Basic Immunization Services
- Includes BCG vaccination against tuberculosis.
- Inoculation against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis.
- Oral poliomyelitis immunization.
- Protection against measles and rubella.
- Other immunizations recommended by the Council for the Welfare of Children to the Secretary of Health.
Role of the Department of Health
- Provides free basic immunization services nationwide.
- Responsible for issuing rules and regulations regarding immunization schedules, ages, procedures, and available resources.
Duties of Parents, Guardians, or Custodians
- Required to present their infants or children for basic immunization at designated places and times as specified by the Department of Health.
Obligations of Educational and Care Institutions
- Heads of schools or institutions caring for children must provide basic immunization services.
- May coordinate with the Department of Health for free immunization programs.
Immunization Requirement for School Entrants
- Both public and private schools are obligated to ensure pre-school and primary entrants receive basic immunization if not previously immunized.
- Subject to rules issued by the Secretary of Health.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
- Imprisonment of up to one month, or
- A fine not exceeding two hundred pesos, or
- Both imprisonment and fine at the court’s discretion.
- A higher penalty applies if provided under the Revised Penal Code or other special laws.
Repealing Clause
- All inconsistent laws or provisions are repealed or modified to conform with this Decree.
Separability Clause
- Invalidity of any provision does not affect the operation of other provisions.
Effectivity Clause
- The Decree takes effect immediately upon approval.