GEORGE TOWN: Penang’s free influenza vaccination programme has started smoothly, but appointments at some clinics are fully booked until the end of March, said Penang health committee chairman Daniel Gooi.
"Penang has received 4,000 doses of the vaccine, which will be administered at 24 clinics across all five districts in the first phase of the programme.
"So far, some clinics have already reached full booking capacity until the end of March," he said during a press conference at the health clinic in Jalan Macalister on Tuesday (February 18).
While walk-ins are allowed, Gooi advised the public to book appointments through the MySejahtera app for a smoother process.
"All individuals who have secured their appointments via MySejahtera will receive their allocated dose. However, for those walking in, there may not be enough supply, as the available slots are very limited," he said.
The nationwide influenza immunisation programme is available at selected government health clinics for senior citizens aged 60 and above with at least one comorbidity.
The number of doses dispensed daily is restricted, with major clinics administering only 15 doses per day.
Appointments can be booked via the MySejahtera app, where the location, date and time can be selected if available.
