Kuala lumpur: The Selangor government is set to initiate its free Influenza vaccination program targeting schoolchildren in four districts with the highest incidence rates-Petaling, Klang, Gombak, and Hulu Lang-starting next week. The program aims to provide vaccinations to over 12,500 schoolchildren, supported by an allocation of RM1 million.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the State Public Health and Environment Committee chairman, Jamaliah Jamaluddin, announced that the initiative seeks to protect children, particularly those from low-income families, against Influenza infections and reduce community transmission. The program will employ two methods for vaccine distribution. The first method involves an outreach program at schools with Integrated Special Education Centres (PPKIs), targeting approximately 4,720 pupils aged eight and below from the B40 group. Each pupil will receive information leaflets and a QR code for parental registration via the SELangkah application.

The state government has partnered with Selcare Management Sdn Bhd, the Selangor State Education Department, the Selangor State Health Department, school administrations, and community service centres to ensure the program runs smoothly. Jamaliah elaborated that the second method involves walk-ins at Selcare Clinics or selected panel clinics, requiring parents to register and confirm eligibility through the SELangkah app before visiting the facilities.

Jamaliah encouraged all eligible parents to register using the SELangkah app to take advantage of the state-provided service to safeguard their children against Influenza. The Selangor government is committed to enhancing the well-being of its residents, particularly children and families from the B40 group. This vaccination program not only alleviates financial burdens for these families but also plays an essential role in improving children’s health and school attendance.