Negeri Sembilan: The Negeri Sembilan Health Department (JKNNS) is urging all eligible senior citizens in the state to take advantage of the free influenza vaccination program as a preventive measure against severe infections and complications.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, State Health Director Dr. Zuraida Mohamed highlighted the importance of community participation in enhancing public health preparedness and in reducing the influenza burden in the state. The program, which commenced on February 18, targets senior citizens aged 60 and above with at least one chronic illness such as diabetes, respiratory disease, heart disease, obesity, hypertension, dyslipidemia, or chronic kidney disease.

Dr. Zuraida emphasized that the program is voluntary and aims to protect high-risk groups from serious complications due to influenza, including pneumonia, heart disease, and sepsis, which could potentially lead to hospitalization or death. This year, the Ministry of Health (MOH) has allocated 7,000 doses of the influenza vaccine to Negeri Sembilan. However, only 2,597 senior citizens have received the vaccination to date.

She further mentioned that vaccination appointments can be made through the MySejahtera app or by visiting health clinics directly. The availability of vaccines depends on the supply distribution, which is carried out in phases across the country.