By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Feb 11: Senior citizens aged 60 and above with at least one listed chronic illness can receive the influenza vaccine for free starting Feb 18.
According to the Health Ministry (MOH), the voluntary vaccination programme is available to those suffering from chronic conditions such as diabetes, respiratory diseases, heart disease, obesity, hypertension, dyslipidaemia, and chronic kidney disease.
It said that those who are eligible can schedule appointments through the MySejahtera app starting on Feb 14, but availability will depend on the phased distribution of vaccines across the country.
The initiative is expected to benefit more than 170,000 senior citizens, and it aims to protect high-risk populations from severe complications due to influenza that can lead to hospitalisation or even death.
The expanded influenza immunisation programme, which began in 2006, previously focused on frontline healthcare workers.
“It is also in line with the Elderly Healthcare Services Action Plan 2023-2030, launched last Oct 1,” said the ministry.
MOH also assured that the temporary shortage of influenza vaccines due to high demand is being addressed, with adequate supplies expected for ongoing immunisation efforts, including for pilgrims.
The ministry advises the public to get the flu shot annually, with the best time to get the vaccine in Malaysia in March or September.
It explained this is in line with preparations for the winter waves, from May to July in the southern hemisphere and from November to January in the northern hemisphere.
Additionally, the public is encouraged to follow preventive measures against influenza and seek medical attention if they experience symptoms like fever, cough or prolonged cold. — DayakDaily
