You may have had your first and second Covid-19 vaccine, but unfortunately the fight against Covid-19 is not over yet. The start of 2022 has brought about a surge in the highly contagious Omicron variant, and the Malaysian government has taken steps to address this variant by administering Covid-19 booster jabs.
As of January 24, 45.7% of the adults in Malaysia have received the Covid-19 booster dose. The first step is to get yourself registered for your Covid-19 booster shot using the MySejahtera app. Here is a quick guide on how to prepare yourself for the booster vaccination.
Why do you need the Covid-19 booster shot?
The two doses of vaccinations you received would have done their work of protecting you from serious illness and death from COVID-19. However even highly effective vaccines often become less so over time. As stated by the Ministry of Health (MOH), taking a booster means you are 70% less likely to be infected, and 90% less likely to get symptoms and severe infections from Covid-19.
Are you eligible for the Covid-19 booster?
Those who are eligible for the booster shot are individuals who are above the age of 18 years and have taken their primary shots about three months ago.
What should you do before you receive your Covid-19 booster?
Now that you have registered for your vaccination, ensure that you take these steps before your vaccination - get sufficient sleep, eat a nutritious meal, feel physically well, and possess no potential Covid-19 symptoms, wear a face mask, bring along your identity card and ensure that you are not under quarantine.
What kind of booster will you be receiving?
Mixing and matching COVID-19 booster shots, is it safe?
Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin has stated that heterologous vaccination – mixing vaccine types – was found to be safe and effective.
What should you do after receiving a Covid-19 booster?
Congratulations! You are now fully vaccinated. Be in the designated observation space for at least 15 minutes. Inform health workers or seek immediate treatment if you experience signs of severe side effects immediately after receiving the booster.
Will I develop any side effects from the Covid-19 booster?
Like other vaccines, you may experience some side effects from the booster shot. Most side effects are mild, and you will get better within a few days. Some common side effects include pain, redness, swelling at the injection site, fever, chills, headache, muscle pain, joint pain, and tiredness.
Most side effects are not serious and should go away on their own. However, it's important to stay hydrated as this may help to shorten the duration and intensity of side effects. It is also important to follow Covid-19 precaution measures and avoid strenuous activities for a week.
Experiencing any side effects such as fever or muscle pain? See a doctor from the comfort of your home, for advice and medicine to alleviate any pain and discomfort.
Consider using Doctor Anywhere and get medication delivered to your door in three hours.