WHILE an enormous amount of importance is given to contain the Covid-19 pandemic, it is also equally important to take preventive measures against other kinds of sicknesses.
Kebun Bunga assemblyman Jason Ong said the public, especially the elderly, should pay attention to diseases such as influenza and pneumonia.
“We should not take lightly of other sicknesses such as the influenza and pneumonia which could lead to death.
“Individuals who are above 65 years are at a greater risk of developing serious complications from these sicknesses.
“Thus, as a preventive measure, a total of 500 doses of flu vaccine (Vaxigrip Tetra) would be given to senior citizens from B40 group at various constituency including Kebun Bunga.
“This programme is conducted in collaboration with the Penang Adventist Hospital (PAH),” Ong said during the flu vaccination programme at the Village Community Management Council (MPKK) Padang Tembak Hall today.
Ong also added that the influenza vaccine is a yearly vaccine that protects an individual from contracting flu.
“We hope that in future, the PAH would be also helping the needy members of the community to receive vaccines to fight other diseases, such as the Hepatitis B.
“We would like to convey our heartiest gratitude to the PAH for coming forward to help the community to live a healthier lifestyle.
“The PAH has also been very helpful throughout the movement control order (MCO) period last year by distributing food to those who were in need.
One of the recipients, Tan Lee Yok said she decided to take the vaccine as she falls under the vulnerable group.
“I had received the flu vaccine a few years ago when I visited China. It is good that I am taking the vaccine shot again to boost my body’s resistance towards flu.
“After taking the jab, the medical personnel asked me to rest for 15 minutes and now I feel totally normal and steady,” Tan, 78, told Buletin Mutiara during the programme.
Another recipient, Siew Moey Lan, who lives in Pepper Estate said this was the first time she received the flu vaccine.
“I got to know about this programme through the MPKK in my neighbourhood, and I feel good after receiving it.
“I have also registered for the National Covid-19 Immunisation Programme,” said Siew, 75.
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Law Suun Ting