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KUALA LUMPUR – Senior citizens, high-risk individuals, and those with comorbidities can get Covid-19 vaccine booster shots on a walk-in basis at public healthcare facilities from January 9.
Health Minister Dr Zaliha Mustafa said those in these categories can walk into any health clinic and hospital under the ministry during clinic hours.
“No prior appointments needed,” she said in a statement.
Comorbidities include chronic illnesses, while senior citizens are defined as those aged 60 and above.
High-risk individuals include those who have had severe Covid-19 and related complications, Dr Zaliha added.
The walk-in facility is being offered to encourage those in high-risk groups who have yet to be vaccinated or boosted to do so.
She said the move is part of Malaysia’s preparedness and response to China's move to end its zero-Covid-19 policy and allow mass travel amid a surge of infections there.
Dr Zaliha also announced measures to be taken at international entry points on arrivals from China, including temperature screenings and further examination of those displaying symptoms, as well as testing sewage from aircraft arriving from China.
Over 90% of Malaysia’s population are fully vaccinated with the first two shots doses of the vaccine and a booster, but only 1.9% or 629,215 people have had the second booster shot. – The Vibes, December 30, 2022.
