With the government severely emphasising the transition of the nation to the endemic phase, it’s to no doubt public health policies are being reviewed from time to time. Standard Operation Procedures (SOPs) and health regulations including the administering of vaccines are being changed to suit the demands and needs of our recuperating nation. As of now, 83.1% of our population have been fully vaccinated. While this is great news, here’s the catch — we would be undergoing a phase where the third dose would be administered.
Our friends from Sarawak would be taking the third dose of the Covid-19 vaccine beginning next month where Health Minister, Khairy Jamaluddin stated that they are now in the process of preparing the clinical guidelines before implementing the programme for the third dose. This includes, the types of vaccine, whether to administer the same vaccine or mix and match with those that are acceptable.
But isn’t it unfair to people living in other states? Not at all. Sarawak will be one of the first states to start the booster programme because it was one of the first states to complete the vaccination exercise. With a total population of 64.9% being fully vaccinated and being the first state to roll out vaccinations, this comes as an amazing perk. Now, to look at the bigger picture, let’s have a look at the prioritised groups for booster doses according to international sources. This would most likely be the blueprint for the administering of these doses in Malaysia too.
Here are the individuals who would get the booster dose first!
Individuals Aged 65 Or Older
Older adults are significantly more likely to get severely ill and die from Covid-19 than any other groups of people. More than 80% of Covid-19 deaths occur in people aged over 65! The risk of infection is not the same for all age groups. Currently, infections are highest in the youngest and lower in older age groups.
Individuals With Underlying Health Conditions
People aged between 50 and 64, could get a booster dose if they have underlying medical conditions or in other words are immunocompromised. This includes, diabetes, cancer or heart conditions. For young adults who have conditions such as sickle cell disease, HIV infection or even obesity, the CDC mentions that these individuals “might” receive a booster shot. This fully depends on how at risk you are based on your medical reports and doctor’s recommendation. Talking to your doctor who knows your health history is the best way to determine if it’s right for you.
Individuals With ‘At-Risk’ Jobs
If you’re a medical frontliner or currently, having an at-risk job that poses a high risk for you to contract Covid-19, then you would be able to get a booster dose. This includes, healthcare workers, teachers, prison workers and individuals working under social services. Some experts note that the two-dose mRNA vaccines still work well at preventing severe illness, hospitalisation and death, even against Covid’s delta variant.
Nevertheless, regardless of your health or job status, when the time comes to vaccinate yourself with the booster shot, you should definitely go to the designated PPV. It’s high time everyone started prioritising not only their health but the wellbeing of others too.
Source: Free Malaysia Today
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