High-risk groups need more info before taking vaccines, govt told

 

Academy of Medicine of Malaysia says there’s little information provided on the risk status for pregnant women and the immunocompromised in the MySejahtera app.

PETALING JAYA: The Academy of Medicine of Malaysia has urged the government to clarify where vulnerable groups like pregnant women and the immunocompromised fall on the Covid-19 vaccination priority list.

They added that more information should be provided for these groups to self-assess their risk levels.

“While the medical community was in agreement that the potential risks of vaccinating these groups are outweighed by the benefits of inoculation, more information is needed in order to better accommodate these groups.

“Malaysia’s immunisation strategy must be inclusive and empower high-risk, vulnerable groups with the information to make good decisions,” it said in a statement.

The academy noted there was little information provided on the risk status of these two groups in the MySejahtera app.

“We urge the government to provide necessary updates on the app that will allow patients to empower themselves with the information and resources to get vaccinated according to their risk group.

“There must be adequate communication and coordination with community stakeholders, from medical specialists to community clinics and care homes, to ensure that all immunosuppressed groups can make informed decisions based on their situation.”

With regard to those living with HIV, who are also immunocompromised, the group called for them to be eligible for vaccination regardless of their viral load or T-cell count.

It said that research had shown that all types of Covid-19 vaccines are safe for people with HIV, and that while their immune response may not be as strong, “some protection is better than none.”

The academy further asked for clarity on where those with HIV would sit on the priority list among at-risk groups.  - FMT