A Petaling Jaya resident getting his subsidised flu shot. — ONG SOON HIN/The Star
SUBSIDISED influenza vaccines were provided for residents in Sections 11 and 12, Petaling Jaya in Selangor, under an initiative by Bukit Gasing assemblyman Rajiv Rishyakaran’s office.
This collaboration between Rajiv’s office, the Zone 11 Residents Representatives Council and Mudah Healthcare Malaysia saw vaccinations being administered one weekend at SMK Sultan Abdul Samad in Petaling Jaya.
Rajiv’s political secretary Kusaaliny Mahendran said 206 residents registered for this year’s programme, but a few dropped out at the last minute.
“There are two pricings, RM30 for seniors aged 65 and above, and RM45 for those aged 65 and below.
“This programme targets residents from Section 11 and Section 12.
“We hope that if we vaccinate more people in one area, there will be herd immunity.
“Since my zone comprises mostly senior citizens, it is important for them to be protected,” said Kusaaliny, the local councillor for Zone 11.
“Younger people can recover faster from the flu but it takes longer for senior citizens.”
She added that the programme started last year with 200 residents vaccinated.
Kusaaliny said Mudah Healthcare provided the subsidised vaccine at RM45 while additional subsidies were from an allocation by Petaling Jaya City Council.
“The vaccine costs RM60 elsewhere. So, buying in bulk is cheaper.
“We have two doctors and three pharmacists present to screen for allergies and ensure that the vaccine is suitable,” she added.
Section 12 Residents Association treasurer Samson Paul lauded Rajiv’s office for the initiative.
Resident Helen Hon, 76, said the initiative was helpful.
“However, they started late this year. Last year’s vaccination was held in May.
“The subsequent vaccination should be held within a year of the previous one,” she said.
