KUALA LUMPUR – Inoculating the employees and residents of nursing homes is important in preventing and reducing the risk of Covid-19 infection in the country, said Deputy Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Ahmad Amzad Hashim.
He said the virus could swiftly spread in nursing homes, adding that it will be difficult to curb its transmission if there is slow action.
“This is because of the closed environment (of the premises) and difficulty in maintaining physical distancing. There is also the problem of movement of staffers from one health or nursing premises to another.
“If there is a virus outbreak, it will be a burden to the operators of these institutions as they lack resources. Health and safety personnel fighting against the virus will not be able to cope when they are constantly flooded with new cases and clusters.”
Amzad said employees and residents of nursing homes need to continue their daily routine, even when Covid-19 cases have been detected in the premises.
“Since the pandemic hit, individuals aged 60 and above account for 70% of the total fatalities recorded.”
As such, he said the government welcomes the cooperation of stakeholders in ensuring employees and residents of these homes are aware of the importance of getting the immunisation.
Malaysia is set to start its National Covid-19 Immunisation Programme on February 26, 80% of the population – or 26 million individuals – expected to receive the shot for free through three phases from April 2021 to February 2022. – Bernama, February 20, 2021
