In a news article by the Malay Mail, it was reported that the Ministry of Health (MOH) has seen a high drop-off rate in follow-up vaccines among babies and children. This was due to the Movement Control Order (MCO) and many parents still being concerned over the spread of COVID-19.
While parents are aware that they should vaccinate their children, many are asking if they are allowed to further delay vaccinating their child and what the ramifications would be if vaccinations are delayed.
If you are a parent with a child who’s missed a couple of vaccinations, here’s why it’s so important that you get your child vaccinated:
1. As your child returns to school and nursery care, they are being exposed to more germs from their surroundings. Vaccination is a simple, safe, and efficient approach to guard you and your child against dangerous infections even before coming into contact with them.
2. Young children have the highest risk of having a serious case of disease that could cause hospitalization or death. Delaying or spreading out vaccine doses leaves your child unprotected during the time when they need vaccine protection the most. For example, diseases such as Hib or pneumococcus almost always occur in the first 2 years of a baby’s life.
3. A child's immune system is still developing and some diseases, like Hepatitis B and whooping cough (pertussis), are more serious when babies get them at a younger age. A delayed vaccination would also mean making your child susceptible to infections for longer periods.
When should I get my child vaccinated?
While delays occur, it is advised that you get your child vaccinated according to the immunization schedule by the MOH:
Missed any of the recommended vaccinations for your child? Speak to a healthcare professional via the Doctor Anywhere app to catch up on missed vaccinations and opt for a home-based vaccination today via our DA Marketplace.