Yeoh (fifth from right), Tunku Puteri Intan Safinaz (fourth from right) and campaign representatives at the MyPelindung launch.
Health NGOs hold campaign to educate people on vaccinations, getting prompt medical treatment
THE Malaysian Society of Infection Control and Infectious Disease (MyICID), National Cancer Society of Malaysia (NCSM) and Malaysian Red Crescent Society (MRCS), in collaboration with Pfizer Malaysia, have launched MyPelindung.
The campaign aims to educate the public on the threat of Covid-19, including the importance of up-to-date vaccinations and prompt treatment.
The event was graced by MRCS national chairman Datuk Seri DiRaja Tan Sri Tunku Puteri Intan Safinaz Sultan Abdul Halim Mu’adzam Shah.
“In face of this battle against Covid-19, MRCS will continue to play its role to serve humanity with impartiality,” said Tunku Puteri Intan Safinaz. The virus continues to circulate in communities and it can still lead to hospitalisations and even death, particularly among high-risk groups.
The endemic phase calls for maintaining vigilance, updating vaccinations and promptly seeking Covid-19-specific treatment if one tests positive.
The MyPelindung campaign has the goal of raising health literacy among Malaysians to dispel myths about the Covid-19 virus and vaccination process so that the public is empowered to make informed health decisions.
In Malaysia’s early Covid-19 vaccination drive, 84.3% of the population completed their primary vaccination series while 50% received their first booster dose.
However, only 2.5% of the population received the second booster dose.
MyPelindung is particularly focused on encouraging high-risk groups to get booster doses which can reduce severe illness, hospitalisation and death.
Also present at the campaign launch were Health Ministry deputy director-general of public health Datuk Dr Norhayati Rusli, actress Tan Sri Michelle Yeoh, MyICID president Dr Shaharudeen Kamaludeen, NCSM president Datuk Dr Saunthari Somasundaram, Immunise4Life chairman Prof Datuk Dr Zulkifli Ismail and Pfizer Malaysia, Pakistan and Brunei country cluster lead Luksanawan Thangpaibool.
Dr Shaharudeen said, “Vaccinations, including booster doses, are our primary line of defence against the virus. Prompt medical treatment after a positive test for Covid-19 is equally vital.
“People aged 60 and above or those with underlying health conditions including lung or heart disease, diabetes or other conditions affecting the immune system face increased vulnerability to Covid-19.
“Treatment for Covid-19 should start as soon as possible after diagnosis for it to be effective.
“Specific treatment must be started within days after a person first develops symptoms,” she said.
A range of interactive activities will be organised by the campaign’s partners to foster public health literacy.
Thangpaibool said, “Our mission at Pfizer extends beyond delivering innovative healthcare solutions.
“We’re committed to ensuring that these innovations are not only accessible but also inclusive.
“The MyPelindung initiative allows us to work hand-in-hand with those that form the vanguard of public health.”
