The Latest Health News in Malaysia: COVID-19 Vaccination Updates
Malaysia has been grappling with the COVID-19 pandemic for over a year now, and vaccination has been the key focus in the fight against the virus. While the nation has announced its ambitious target to achieve herd immunity by the end of this year, many Malaysians still have questions regarding the vaccine efficacy, side effects, and availability. In this article, we will provide updated insights on COVID-19 vaccination in Malaysia.
Understanding the COVID-19 Vaccines Available in Malaysia
As of June 2021, there are four COVID-19 vaccines that have received authorization from the National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency (NPRA) in Malaysia – Pfizer-BioNTech, AstraZeneca, Sinovac, and CanSino. Each has its unique characteristics and efficacy, and Malaysians may be wondering which vaccine suits them best.
Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine: This is a two-dose vaccine, with doses to be given three weeks apart. The vaccine has been shown to be 95% effective in preventing COVID-19 in clinical trials. The vaccine is currently being administered in stages to Malaysians over 18 years of age, with priority given to healthcare workers and frontliners.
AstraZeneca vaccine: Similar to Pfizer-BioNTech, this vaccine is also administered in two doses, given at an interval of 12 weeks. The trial data shows that the vaccine has an efficacy rate of 76%, and it is currently being rolled out to those aged 60 and above.
Sinovac vaccine: Approved for emergency use in Malaysia, this vaccine has an efficacy rate of 78%, according to the data provided by the manufacturer. This vaccine is given in two doses, with the second dose given two to four weeks after the first.
CanSino vaccine: This vaccine is administered as a single dose and has an efficacy rate of 65%. This vaccine has recently been authorized for emergency use in Malaysia.
Malaysia’s COVID-19 Vaccination Rollout Plan
The Malaysian government has put in place an ambitious plan to vaccinate the entire population, prioritizing frontline and essential workers, followed by those aged 60 and above, and people with compromised immune systems. The general public is expected to receive the vaccine by Q3 and Q4 2021. As of June 2021, there are 1.5 million Malaysians that have received both doses of the vaccine, while the number of first doses administered has reached over 4.5 million.
Side Effects and Benefits of COVID-19 Vaccination
Like any vaccine, COVID-19 vaccines have been reported to cause some side effects. The most common side effects are pain and swelling at the injection site, fatigue, fever, headache, and muscle pain. These side effects are short-lived and should subside within a few days. It is important to note that the benefits of vaccination far outweigh the risks. Vaccination is the key to breaking the chain of transmission, preventing severe illness, and ultimately, saving lives.
In Conclusion
Malaysia’s COVID-19 vaccination program is underway, and it is vital for Malaysians to get vaccinated to protect themselves and others from the virus. Before getting vaccinated, Malaysians must understand the different types of vaccines available and their respective benefits and side effects. The sooner the nation achieves herd immunity, the sooner the nation can return to normalcy. Let us all do our part by getting vaccinated.
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