Ramos signs law on immunization

Ramos signs law on immunization

MANILA (AFP): President Fidel Ramos yesterday signed a law requiring immunization of children below the age of eight from hepatitis B, a blood-borne disease affecting 7.8 million Filipinos.

The infection, which doctors say could lead to liver cancer, is "fast becoming a major health problem in the Philippines," Ramos said in a speech during the signing ceremonies.

He said hepatitis B is presently affecting 12 percent of Filipinos, or about 7.8 million people.