KUALA LUMPUR – Private hospitals in the country have offered to assist the government in vaccinating teenagers once the National Covid-19 Immunisation Programme is expanded to include those aged between 12 and 17.
Association of Private Hospitals Malaysia president Datuk Dr Kuljit Singh said while most members have ceased being part of the government’s national vaccination drive, they are ready to be reincluded if requested.
The offer to assist comes in light of a statement issued by Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin yesterday that there is a likelihood Covid-19 will be deemed endemic by the end of next month.
“In view of this, it is essential to have teenagers complete their vaccination, and some private hospitals will be happy to participate in the programme,” said Dr Kuljit in a statement today.
He said hospitals are also prepared to administer jabs at schools if so desired by parents, although it is preferable to carry out vaccination at health facilities.
“Mega vaccination centres may not be conducive for children unless there are no other viable options. Family clinics and general practitioners are other good considerations.”
He said any plan to have children vaccinated must first get clearance by regulators, with the decision based on data obtained from vaccine manufacturers and scientific studies, so as to allay fears among parents and doctors.
Determining the type of vaccine suitable for this group is also important to ensure participating private healthcare facilities are able to make the necessary arrangements, he said.
On August 13, Khairy, who was then science, technology and innovation minister, tweeted that children aged 12 to 17 will soon be included in the country’s vaccination drive, with priority accorded to adolescents who meet the set criteria.
This follows a leaked circular signed by Health Director-General Tan Sri Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah a day earlier that noted the programme will include 12- to 15-year-olds with underlying medical conditions, and those aged 16 and 17 with or without certain medical conditions.
Its implementation is scheduled to start later this month, depending on whether there is enough vaccine supply in the country. – The Vibes, September 2, 2021
