LETTER | All have a role to play in boosting vaccination registration

LETTER | Leaders of communities, corporate organisations and professional associations have a role to play in increasing registrations for the National Covid-19 Immunisation Programme.

The Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) is concerned about the slow pace of registrations for the National Covid-19 Immunisation Programme.

At the rate we are going, we may not reach the target of vaccinating 80 percent of the population even by the first quarter of 2022. We should aim to complete inoculating the population as early as possible and by this year.

Community leaders, village heads, heads of religious groups, corporate leaders, the business community, professional associations and even social influencers have a role to play in increasing registrations for the vaccination. We hope that these influential groups will do their part to encourage their communities or network to register early.

We have waited a year over for a way out of the pandemic and the answer has finally arrived. But many Malaysians seem to be hesitant about registering themselves for various reasons - even now when the solution to the pandemic is available.

There is sufficient evidence to show that the vaccines are safe. Before any vaccine is approved for use in the country, it has to go through stringent checks by our National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency (NPRA) with the highest priority given to efficacy and safety. Only with the NPRA's approval can the vaccines be brought in for use.

Any side effects from the vaccine are known to be mild and any serious side effects are rare.

The benefits far outweigh the risks therefore people should not hesitate to register and get their loved ones registered as well. Older persons and those with comorbidities should register now as vaccination for these groups will begin soon (in April) under the NIP's Phase Two.

A person should avoid taking the vaccine if they are known to have allergies to any component in the vaccine. However, even if they have allergies, they may be able to take one of the other vaccines.

MMA urges the public to register as quickly as possible as getting vaccinated will also protect the unvaccinated.

The sooner the population is inoculated, the sooner the country can recover from the impact of the pandemic as businesses will be able to operate confidently without disruptions. Sectors that have been shut may be able to open once again if their workers are vaccinated.

Several countries are also in talks about allowing international travel for vaccinated travellers. Those who need to travel or enjoy travelling should get themselves ready now by registering for the jab.

The writer is president, Malaysian Medical Association.

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.