THE Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) has advised all civil servants who have yet to receive the COVID-19 vaccination to get vaccinated as soon as possible for their own good and for the common good of all.
“It is unfortunate that the Government’s Public Service Department (JPA) has to resort to making vaccination mandatory for all civil servants though it is understandable as the number of unvaccinated civil servants are alarmingly high,” MMA president Dr Koh Kar Chai said.
“Meanwhile, many parents have also expressed concern over their child’s safety when school reopens and therefore, unvaccinated teachers who are eligible for the vaccine should also take the responsible step of ensuring they are fully vaccinated.”
According to Koh, there is sufficient evidence that the COVID-19 vaccines do work, are safe and have mostly mild side effects.
“The studies on the COVID-19 vaccines have been independently and thoroughly scrutinised for the safety and efficacy not only by leading health organisations but by the regulating bodies of each country before they are approved for use.
“Although fully vaccinated individuals can still be infected, symptoms are mild and, in most cases, will not require hospitalisation.
“There is no doubt that viruses will mutate and we may see new variants in the future but for now, it is important that we use all available tools to protect ourselves and each other against COVID-19.”
Koh further pointed out that the benefits of getting vaccinated can clearly be seen now with severe cases of COVID-19 on the downtrend and more sectors are gradually opening up.
“As the saying goes, ‘the proof is in the pudding’. Very soon, more Malaysians will be able to enjoy interstate travel and even international travel once again,” he added. – Oct 6, 2021
