IPOH: The people, especially senior citizens, should check their MySejahtera app regularly to ensure they do not miss their vaccination appointment, say health authorities.
Perak Health Department public relations officer Suraya Baharudin said there have been a lot of cases of the elderly who overlooked their appointment dates and then frantically going to the district vaccination centres, hoping to get their jabs.
“They should check the app in the morning and also before they go to sleep.
“I also understand that some of them are staying alone and not tech savvy, ” she said when met at the Kinta district vaccination centre in Indera Mulia Stadium here on Friday (May 21).
“They could get their neighbours or someone they know to assist them, ” she added.
Suraya said those who had missed their appointments or have problems could go to the inquiry counter at the vaccination centre for assistance.
“I also understand that there were some cases whereby the appointment for the jab was scheduled at other states.
“We can help change the venue back to their nearest vaccination centre.
“However, there are no guarantee on the new date for the missed appointment. It could be soon or later, ” she said.
On Wednesday (May 19), Ipoh-based lawyer Cheang Lek Choy highlighted the matter that he received a scheduled appointment to get his first jab in Port Dickson on May 5.
Cheang had missed it due to the distance.
State Youth Assembly Malim Nawar representative Wong Chin Ho assisted him to reschedule his appointment back in Ipoh on Friday (May 21).
Suraya also reminded the public to arrive between 15 and 30 minutes earlier for their vaccination appointments.
“They do not need to come an hour earlier, as this could cause congestion.
“Maybe, children of the senior folks can accompany them so the entire process can be smoother.
“Everyone should always observe the standard operating procedure like wearing face masks and keeping physical distancing, ” she said.
When met near the stadium, Cheang suggested that the Perak Stadium be opened up as a waiting centre for those who are getting vaccinated.
“They should allow people to sit in a sheltered area instead of queuing up under the hot weather.
“The people could also be given a number to wait for their turn.
“Not every senior folk can stand for hours, ” he said.
Wong, who was also present, said he would suggest to Perak MCA chairman Datuk Dr Mah Hang Soon to set up a task force to help with the vaccination programme.
“I could see that there are some related issues like scheduling and manpower problems.
“Perak MCA can set up a task force to help resolve these issues.
“We should be more appreciative and understanding towards the ministry’s staff as they are working hard to fight the disease, ” he said.
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