When planning trips, it’s important to prepare ahead of time by protecting ourselves from any potential obstacles along the way. This includes ensuring we have all necessary documentation, such as visas, and securing travel insurance to safeguard our finances. However, one crucial aspect of trip preparation is protecting ourselves from potential illnesses we may encounter while exploring new destinations. This is why getting vaccinated before a trip is essential, and one of the vaccines we recommend is for polio.
In this article, we’ll provide you with a detailed guide on how to obtain polio vaccines and the International Certificate of Vaccination (ICV).
WHAT’S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?
What is an ICV?
The International Certificate of Vaccination (ICV), also known as the yellow card, is an official document that records a person’s vaccinations required for international travel. Recognized by countries that are members of the World Health Organization, the ICV serves as proof of vaccination. It’s important to check the entry requirements of your destination to determine if an ICV is necessary to avoid any inconvenience or additional expenses.
How to Get Polio Vaccine
1. Register for a BOQ website account
If you don’t have an ICV yet, your first step is to create an account on the Bureau of Quarantine (BOQ) website.
On the homepage, click “Sign Up” and agree to the terms by entering your email address, then tap “Verify” and follow the subsequent steps.
Already have an ICV but no account yet?
You can retrieve your record by following these steps:
- Step 1: Click “Login” on the homepage.
- Step 2: Click the yellow button that says “No Account yet but already have Yellow Card? Login using your name and ICV serial number.”
- Step 3: Enter your name (first name, middle name, and last name) and ICV number.
- Step 4: Enter your personal details and upload a valid government ID like a passport or UMID.
2. Secure an appointment
After signing up for an account, the next step is to book an appointment. Access the Vaccination Services icon under BOQ SERVICES on the dashboard.
Choose the vaccine you need from the available options and proceed to select a BOQ location and site. Various locations and sites are listed based on regions for your convenience.
NCR
- Manila Main Office
…
Once you have selected a date and time, your appointment confirmation will be provided immediately.
3. Confirm your details
Review your details for accuracy on the confirmation page. Complete the health screening checklist by selecting a response for each question and proceed to the next step.
A preview of your ICV card will be provided. Double-check all information, and if correct, proceed to the next step.
4. Pay the fees
Settle the payment to confirm your vaccination schedule. Payment can be made using credit/debit cards, cash, mobile wallet, or online banking. Detailed payment instructions will be provided, including additional convenience and DST fees.
5. Save the QR code
Upon confirmation of payment, save the appointment QR code by taking a screenshot on your mobile device.
6. Get your vaccine
On the scheduled day, bring your QR code, passport, and if available, your ICV card to the chosen BOQ site. After receiving the vaccine, ensure your personal details are correct on the ICV card before departure.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is polio vaccine from BOQ?
The cost of a polio vaccine from BOQ is PHP 770, plus additional convenience and DST fees, totaling PHP 830.
Additional service fees may apply depending on the payment method selected.
What should I wear to my vaccination appointment?
For your vaccination appointment, wear clothing with easily accessible sleeves for administering the vaccine on your upper arm. Avoid wearing shorts, as they are not permitted as per BOQ guidelines.
Can I get the yellow fever and polio vaccines at the same time?
Yes, yellow fever and polio vaccines can be administered together. However, it’s advisable to consult BOQ if additional vaccines are being considered simultaneously to ensure safety.
If I renew my passport, do I need a new ICV?
It’s optional to obtain a new ICV when renewing passports. You can continue using the existing ICV but remember to carry the previous passport during travel for verification by immigration officials against the ICV details.
If interested in transferring vaccine records to a new ICV, a separate appointment for ICV issuance will be required.
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