Health Ministry to conduct immunisation screening in schools

The Health Ministry will reportedly send its personnel to all schools to check on the vaccination status of pupils in Standard Four and Five.

In a report by the Malay Mail‘s Lavinia Louis, minister Dr S. Subramaniam was quoted as saying that the checks — to be conducted in a month’s time —  would be a reminder for those who may not have received the necessary vaccines. 

Dr Subramaniam added that parents should make sure their children receive immunisation before enrolling them into Standard One. 

“We will hold discussions with the Education Ministry on how to link the national immunisation programme with the education system,” he was quoted as saying, adding that it was still up to the parents to have their children vaccinated. 

“They have to be fully aware their children are exposed to harm by not being vaccinated,” he was quoted further. 

The report said some 1,500 parents have refused vaccination and the ministry was looking to send the correct message to the public. 

“We will advise them from the scientific point of view and Jabatan Kemajuan Islam Malaysia (Jakim) has agreed to lend its support to advise from the religious aspect,” Dr Subramaniam reportedly said.