MMA is urging the Health Ministry and all vaccine suppliers to ensure adequate distribution of influenza vaccines to private clinics and hospitals. — Bernama photo
KUCHING (Feb 17): The Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) is urging the Ministry of Health (MoH) and all vaccine suppliers to ensure adequate distribution of influenza vaccines to the private clinics and hospitals.
MMA president Datuk Dr Kalwinder Singh Khaira says this is to prevent gaps in immunisation coverage.
“Details on stock availability and delivery timelines are also crucial for better planning.
“The MMA is always ready to work with the government and suppliers to ensure timely and equitable vaccine access for all Malaysians,” he said in a statement today.
Dr Kalwinder stressed that the MMA was particularly concerned about the shortage of flu vaccines in private clinics.
According to him, many patients are now heeding advice and asking for the vaccine.
“While we fully support the government’s free vaccination programme for high-risk seniors at government clinics, it is equally important to recognise the vital role general practitioners play in community vaccination efforts.”
Nonetheless, the MMA president lauded the government’s initiative of providing free influenza vaccinations for the elderly population, and thus, he encouraged all senior citizens eligible for it to take full advantage of this programme by registering as soon as possible.
“The flu vaccine is beneficial, especially for the elderly folks as it is shown to be effective in protecting against complications from the flu.
“Older persons with comorbidities in particular, are at higher risk of complications from the flu, which can even lead to hospitalisation and in some cases death; hence taking precautions such as getting vaccinated is strongly advised,” said Dr Kalwinder.
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