GEORGE TOWN – Penang is expected to have a twofold supply increase of Covid-19 vaccines next month as part of the initiatives under the National Covid-19 Immunisation Programme (PICK).
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said in a statement today that this was conveyed to him by Science, Technology, and Innovation Minister Khairy Jamaluddin last night.
The increase of vaccines would help Penang activate more vaccination centres (PPVs), including on-site facilities.
Currently, some on-site PPVs have yet to be given the go-ahead because it is believed that there is a short supply of vaccines into the state.
For now, 11 centres have begun operating, including the mega PPV at the SP Setia Spice Arena near Bayan Baru.
Other centres are located at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), seven private hospitals and 19 private clinics.
Overall, Chow said that Penang has exceeded the daily vaccination rate set by the ministry.
“The ministry has set a target for June of 6,544 doses daily but with help from the state and private sector, the daily doses for Thursday went up to 14,422 doses. Some PPVs managed to exceed their maximum capacity numbers. This is a good sign.”
As of Thursday, Penang has vaccinated 13.91% of its population base, said Chow. – The Vibes, June 26, 2021