A general view of the vaccination process at the mega vaccination centre at the Mines International Exhibition & Convention Centre (MIECC). - NSTP/EIZAIRI SHAMSUDIN
A general view of the vaccination process at the mega vaccination centre at the Mines International Exhibition & Convention Centre (MIECC). - NSTP/EIZAIRI SHAMSUDIN

KUALA LUMPUR: There is a possibility of Covid-19 becoming endemic that will require Malaysians to get regular vaccination similar to seasonal flu jabs in certain countries.

Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Khairy Jamaluddin said if or when this happens, a booster jab is required to keep people protected against Covid-19.

"Like many other countries, we are now studying whether a third, booster dose, might be necessary," said Khairy in a short video message on the Covid-19 National Immunisation Programme (NIP) that was shared on his official social media accounts today.

It was reported that the Prime Minister's special advisor on Public Health, Tan Seri Dr Jemilah Mahmood had said that a different approach might be needed in order to prevent the spread of Covid-19.

This follows the warning issued by the World Health Organisation (WHO) that the virus was likely to become endemic.

Khairy, who is also the Coordinating Minister for NIP, said the government would continue to draw on real world data on vaccine effectiveness against all Covid-19 variants, including the highly contagious Delta variant and other future variants.

He said that the government would continue to improve people's vaccination experience, including its process.

"We will continue to enhance the MySejahtera app's Help Desk feature to help you troubleshoot issues that you have with your appointment.

"We will also continue to improve your experience at vaccination centres (PPVs) by continuously upgrading our volunteers capacity to respond and deliver a world class experience," he said.

Khairy also reiterated his call for cooperation from the people to ensure the success of the NIP.

"We need help from all of you to make sure that the next few crucial months a success. When you get your appointment, go and get vaccinated.

"Encourage your friends and family members who have not registered to do so. Share verified information about the vaccines. Volunteer at PPVs, if you can. We will issue details on how to help out.

"The next few months are everything. We need to more than ever come together and win together. Let's do this."