Vital living: Darren Tay (second from left) with other senior citizens exercising in Bukit Dumbar, Penang. — LIM BENG TATT/The Star
GEORGE TOWN: Retiree R. Segaran, 63, had been considering a flu shot after hearing about relatives getting sick.
However, concerned about the cost, as he now lives on his savings, he hadn’t enquired about it at private clinics.
So when the government announced free flu jabs for senior citizens with chronic illnesses, he was relieved.
“I have diabetes and hypertension. Since last year, I’ve heard about so many friends and relatives getting the flu, and it seemed to affect them badly. I thought a wave of Covid-19 was back.
“I haven’t caught the flu yet because I stay home with my wife most of the time.
“I am definitely signing up for the free jab via MySejahtera when it starts,” said the former factory technician.
Starting tomorrow, all Malaysians over 60 with at least one chronic illness are eligible for free influenza vaccinations by registering through the MySejahtera app.
Housewife Doreen Phor, 56, said she would not hesitate to get the free flu vaccine, but she is four years too young.
“I recently got my influenza shot at a private clinic, and it cost me RM80.
“With the increasing number of influenza cases in the community, we should not only protect ourselves but also those around us.
“Although I spend most of my time at home and am relatively safe, others could still carry the virus and spread it,” she said yesterday.
She added that her family members have also received their flu shots and would gladly accept the vaccine if it is offered by the government.
“My last jab was in August, and since the dose is expected to be effective for a year, I would gladly take it again this August if the government provides it for free.”
However, retired fish farmer Teh Ah Teik, 64, remains hesitant about getting the jab.
He has not applied for it despite having taken the flu vaccine once, many years ago.
“A few years back, before travelling to Taiwan, I got a flu shot at a local clinic.
“But since I have no plans to travel to cold places anytime soon, I don’t see the need for another flu shot, even if it’s free.
“Instead, I focus on keeping myself healthy by walking for about an hour every day.”
Phor and Teh are among many senior citizens who have expressed mixed opinions on whether to apply for or receive the flu vaccine.
Penang health committee chairman Daniel Gooi said eligibility for the free flu vaccination requires registration and appointments through the MySejahtera app.“A total of 24 health clinics in Penang have been selected to provide the vaccines to eligible recipients,” he said.
