Self-test kits a game-changer

THE Covid-19 self-test kits, which are expected to be widely and easily available to Malaysians soon, will indeed be a game-changer in our quest to control the spread of the coronavirus.

To test themselves, people will not have to go to hospitals, clinics and other places where they would be exposed to the risk of infection.

Those who are tested positive using these self-test kits can seek medical treatment and also self-quarantine immediately.

This will allow us to return to a semblance of normalcy faster than when such kits were not available and reliance was solely placed on the healthcare system.

But there is some concern regarding the price of the kits, which is said to be RM39.90 each. While some may question the rationale of imposing such a price, it is more important to look at its affordability.

If there are four members in a family, they will need nearly RM160 to do the first test. What happens when they may have to re-test a few weeks later? This is a price that many, especially those in the B40 group, will not be able to afford.

Some means must be implemented to ease the burden of the financially challenged. It is both in the interest of families and the community that self-test kits are affordable and available for as wide a segment of society as possible. Perhaps some form of subsidy can be considered for the poor and low-income earners.

It is also encouraging that the number of vaccinations daily has breached the 400,000 mark. Perhaps it is time to relax some movement restrictions for those who have received both doses.

They should be allowed to engage in activities like dining-in and be free to travel inter-district and interstate. This will lead to a gradual but important boost to the economy.

A word of caution to those using the self-test kits: Please read and follow the instructions carefully, especially on how and where the used kits should be disposed of.

This highlights the need for the continuous flow of information and education by the authorities, and the importance of self-discipline in respect of following all standard operating procedure and other common sense safety measures.

Another matter of rising concern are the “empty” vaccine shots incidents. This is causing anxiety to millions who now doubt the vaccination process.

How did this happen? Wasn’t this possibility foreseen? Incidents of such nature are totally unacceptable as they would affect public confidence in the immunisation programme.

The pain the needle caused to the skin now pales before the extreme pain that comes from the thought that the syringe was empty.

What assurance can the authorities give the public as to the integrity of the vaccination process to allay the concern of all those who have already been vaccinated?

The authorities must act fast to ensure complete transparency and integrity of the vaccination process.

TAN SRI LEE LAM THYE , Chairman Alliance For Safe Community