GEORGE TOWN – After repeated requests for more Covid-19 vaccines, Penang today received part of the 200,000 doses specially approved by the Health Ministry (MoH).
Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the 43,120 doses brought in today will be distributed to all five districts in the state.
“I hope that with the supply of vaccines, all vaccination centres (PPVs) in the state can be fully operational,” he said after inspecting the delivery of vaccines to the Bayan Baru Health Clinic this morning.
Some 60% of Penang’s adult population is expected to be fully vaccinated in the next two days while nearly the entire population is projected to have their first doses by mid-September.
Also present were health exco Dr Norlela Ariffin, state Health Director Dr Maarof Sudin and Deputy Health Director Dr Rafidah Noor.
Dr Norlela said she has appealed for additional help in treating Covid-19, especially in terms of clinical and non-clinical staff.
“Currently, the goal is to get additional staff so there are no deaths before arrival at the hospital for those who are quarantined at home,” she said.
Chow had clarified in his winding-up speech at the state assembly meet yesterday that the state is not rejecting Selangor’s offer to loan vaccines to Penang. Instead, both have agreed that the offer between the states still stands, and discussions will continue based on the circumstances in the near future.
“In terms of medical equipment, we welcome aid from the federal government,” he said.
He said that Penang has channelled medical manpower to reduce cases in the Klang Valley.
“Hence, the same approach should be used by focusing on northern states, especially Penang, and possibly Kedah and Perak,” he said.
Separately, Penang Island City Council (MBPP) Mayor Datuk Yew Tung Seang advised those who are fully vaccinated to continue observing standard operating procedures as they still face the risk of being infected with Covid-19.
“Out of 188 MBPP workers who contracted Covid-19, 30% of them were fully vaccinated.
“Being fully vaccinated does not mean we can’t be infected, which is why we want the public to be responsible for themselves and the community,” he said. – The Vibes, September 3, 2021
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