KUALA LUMPUR – The vaccination of all students who will sit major examinations next year is deemed the best “way out” for them to return to school immediately, despite the country still battling a high number of daily Covid-19 cases.
National Covid-19 Immunisation Programme Coordinating Minister Khairy Jamaluddin had on Friday said should this be done, Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia and Sijil Tinggi Pelajaran Malaysia 2021 candidates may attend learning sessions at school till the examinations.
The first dose of the government-approved Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for children aged 12 and above is expected to be administered to students in the middle of next month.
Dr Rosnida Mohd Noh, who is UiTM Sg Buloh Medicine Faculty’s Infectious Diseases Unit head, said vaccination is the best shield for students, especially for candidates who will sit examinations, to protect them from severe complications of the Covid-19 infection.
Although findings show that coronavirus symptoms faced by children up to 17 years old are milder than adults, the vaccination will ensure students are protected before returning to school, she added.
She explained that students need not worry about side effects, such as fever and headaches, as these are only temporary.
“The risk of Covid-19 infection is greater (if not vaccinated) and can cause acute effects in the long run.
“Most importantly, when students receive the vaccine, it will indirectly reduce disruption to their learning process, so they can continue their schooling sessions as usual.”
She said based on the current situation and disclosure of information related to Covid-19 vaccines via various media channels, students are now seen to be more confident that the immunisation programme could be implemented successfully.
On the other hand, Dr Anuar Ahmad, a Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia lecturer, is of the view that vaccination of examination candidates should be more targeted.
He said such an approach is necessary for students in need to be vaccinated first to ensure the continuity of learning.
“An estimated 500,0000 students will sit major exams this year.
“Due to the large number and limited time, it should be made clear who will be the target (students). Which group of students should be given priority… urban or rural students?”
He said if vaccination is to be carried out in stages, rural students having difficulty accessing the internet should be given priority.
“Meanwhile, groups that have internet access can temporarily continue with online learning.
“It is hoped that vaccination will be expedited and expanded for other students (non-examination candidates).
“I am sure most students will sign up to be vaccinated as young people (usually) have a better understanding of the importance of vaccines.” – Bernama, June 21, 2021
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