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FREE influenza vaccinations will be given to senior citizens aged 60 and above from February 18, 2025 under an expanded government immunisation programme, said the Ministry of Health.
Appointments can be made via the MySejahtera app starting February 14 and availability will depend on phased nationwide distribution, MOH said in a statement.
“This voluntary vaccination programme is expected to benefit over 170,000 high-risk senior citizens.
"The programme aims to reduce serious complications caused by influenza infections, including pneumonia, heart inflammation, and sepsis, which could lead to hospitalisation or death."
MOH said the sudden passing of Taiwanese actress Barbie Hsu due to pneumonia linked to influenza had sparked concerns across East Asia.
This led to increased public demand for influenza vaccines and also caused a temporary shortage of vaccine supplies in Malaysia.
"However, the shortage is only temporary. The medium-term supply remains sufficient for ongoing immunisation programmes, including for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims,” added MOH.
The MOH Pharmaceutical Services Programme is also taking steps to stabilise vaccine availability in the local private sector as soon as possible.
MOH said the influenza vaccine is recommended to be taken once a year by all members of society, especially high-risk groups.
The best time to receive the influenza vaccine is in April or October in line with preparation for the winter season wave in the southern hemisphere from May to July and the winter season wave in the northern hemisphere from November to January. – February 10, 2025
