Covid-19: Health Ministry urges high-risk groups to get vaccinated amid JN.1 subvariant spread
The ministry also stated that although there has been a recent increase in Covid-19 cases nationwide, the average weekly number of cases remains below the national warning threshold, and no deaths have been reported so far.
In a statement today, MoH highlighted that Covid-19 infections can be effectively controlled by maintaining a strong level of immunity.
As such, the ministry encourages individuals in high-risk groups to receive an additional dose of the Covid-19 vaccine to reduce the risk of infection, serious complications, and death.
'The administration of the Covid-19 vaccine is encouraged for high-risk groups consisting of individuals who have not received the vaccine before,' said the ministry, adding that even those who had previously been vaccinated are encouraged to go for another round.
High-risk groups include individuals aged 18 years and above as well as individuals aged 12 years and above, who have comorbidities or are immunocompromised, pregnant women and healthcare workers, especially those who have direct contact with patients.
MoH said the Covid-19 vaccine is given voluntarily and free of charge at selected government health clinics nationwide, which can be looked up at website covid-19.moh.gov.my and the MySejahtera application.
The public is also advised to continue observing standard Covid-19 prevention measures, such as washing hands regularly with soap or hand sanitiser, practising proper cough etiquette, and wearing a face mask when symptomatic or in crowded places.
'The MoH remains committed to ensuring that community health is given priority and that health services and control of the spread of any epidemic are at the best level,' it added. — The Borneo Post
Hashtags

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Free Malaysia Today
an hour ago
- Free Malaysia Today
Malaysia's first breast cancer survivor to finish an ultramarathon
On July 8, Leong Wai Leng was recognised by the Malaysia Book of Records as the 'first breast cancer survivor to complete an ultramarathon'. (Leong Wai Leng pic) PETALING JAYA : Completing any race exceeding 42.195 km is no easy feat. So when Leong Wai Leng burst out crying after running 110.5 km in 24 hours during the Melaka 24H Ultramarathon 2025, it was tears of joy. In August 2022, she was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer. She had taken up running a few months earlier as a way to keep fit and relieve stress. But after the diagnosis, the activity took on a deeper meaning. 'Running became my therapy. It gave me strength and a way to reclaim control over my life and body,' Leong, 50, told FMT Lifestyle. 'Running taught me endurance – not just physical, but emotional and mental. Each step reminded me that I was alive and capable. When I ran, I felt free from the label 'cancer patient', she added. Leong with her MBR certificate, along with the trophy and medal she earned from the Melaka 24H Ultramarathon 2025. (Leong Wai Leng pic) Leong vividly remembers the day she was told she had cancer. 'It was a devastating moment. I felt like my whole world collapsed. I was shocked, fearful and overwhelmed with uncertainty. 'But after the initial wave of emotions, I reminded myself that I had two children and a life to live. I had to fight, not just for myself – but for them,' said Leong, whose sons are aged 17 and 12 today. She underwent surgery to remove her left breast in December 2022 on Christmas Day. And later, a reconstruction procedure. This was followed by six cycles of chemotherapy and 15 sessions of radiotherapy until September 2023. Throughout the ordeal, she ran. In early December, just three weeks before her surgery, she completed her first full marathon – 42.195 km. 'I wanted to prove to myself that even with cancer, I could still achieve something extraordinary. 'Crossing the finish line before going into surgery felt like a powerful message, to myself and others, that cancer doesn't define or stop us,' she said. Even after the surgery, she ran. She has completed nearly 150 marathons, ultramarathons, a walkathon and trail runs across Malaysia – and even a few in the US and Thailand. Some of Leong's medals and trophies – she has participated in nearly 150 marathons, ultramarathons and trail runs to date. (Andrea Rhiannon Edmonds @ FMT Lifestyle) Her husband, Steven Im, has participated alongside her in each race. 'When I'm struggling to finish, he'd say, I'll wait for you at the finish line,' she said with a laugh, adding that his words were the motivation she needed to power through! 'My family, especially my husband and children, were my pillars of strength. Their support gave me the courage to push through the darkest times. I also held on to my faith, and the belief that I could still live a meaningful life despite the diagnosis,' she said. Determined that their children not miss out on creating memories with their mother, the couple makes it a point to include them when they travel out of town for running events. Leong is also grateful for the support of a running community she belongs to called the Malaysia Women Runners, and its founder, Safiah Galgo, as well as the organisations that sponsored her participation in several running events. Leong with her husband, Steven Im. (Andrea Rhiannon Edmonds @ FMT Lifestyle) Looking back, Leong said that the 110.5 km ultramarathon – her longest distance to date – as 'one of the toughest and most emotional experiences of her life'. Running through the night, battling fatigue, cold, and knee pain, she added, pushed her to her edge. 'But every step reminded me of my fight against cancer. I cried when I crossed the finish line. 'It wasn't just a race; it was a celebration of life, strength and survival.' On July 8, the Malaysia Book of Records named her the 'first breast cancer survivor to complete an ultramarathon', a well-deserved recognition. Leong is eyeing an even greater challenge next: a 120 km run. To others battling cancer, she shared this message: 'Never let cancer define your limits. You are stronger than you think. I started with short walks after surgery and went on to complete a 110 km ultramarathon. 'Start small, believe in your healing and surround yourself with love and support. Life after cancer is not just possible – it can be powerful, beautiful and full of victories.' Leong believes you should never let cancer define your limits. (Leong Wai Leng pic) Follow Leong Wai Leng's adventures on YouTube.


Malay Mail
16 hours ago
- Malay Mail
Drug price transparency kicks in at private clinics and pharmacies, full enforcement by January 2026
KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 3 — The Ministry of Health (MOH) and the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) are implementing the drug price display initiative at private health facilities and community pharmacies in stages starting August 1. According to a joint statement by both ministries, the initiative, which was implemented under the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering (Price Marking of Medicines) Order 2025 [P.U.(A) 141/2025] under the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering Act 2011, began on May 1. The statement said the educational enforcement approach was implemented in the first three months ending July 31. 'During the period, 842 facilities consisting of medical clinics, dental clinics and private hospitals as well as community pharmacies were inspected and the majority of them have implemented this initiative with 57 per cent of them complying with the requirements for satisfactory drug price display,' according to the statement. In this regard, enforcement will continue in stages from August 1 through educational approach inspections and advocacy for two months until September 30 and a reminder letter may be issued in the event of non-compliance. According to the statement, starting October 1, compounds would be issued for repeat offences before full enforcement on January 1, 2026. MOH and KPDN also took note of the judicial review action filed in the High Court by seven organisations representing medical and dental practitioners and one private medical practitioner regarding the validity of Order PU (A) 141/2025. 'However, until this statement is issued, there is no court order directing the suspension of the implementation or enforcement of this order. Therefore, Order P.U.(A) 141/2025 remains valid and in force,' according to the statement. MOH and KPDN also expressed their commitment to implement the initiative in an inclusive, phased and prudent manner to ensure that its benefits are enjoyed by consumers and contribute to increasing transparency, accountability and trust in the country's health system. — Bernama


The Sun
17 hours ago
- The Sun
Drug price display initiative continues in Malaysia from Aug 1
KUALA LUMPUR: The Ministry of Health (MOH) and the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) are proceeding with the drug price display initiative at private healthcare facilities and community pharmacies. The phased implementation, which began on August 1, follows an initial educational enforcement period from May 1 to July 31. A joint statement from both ministries confirmed that 842 facilities, including medical clinics, dental clinics, private hospitals, and community pharmacies, were inspected during the initial phase. Of these, 57 per cent complied with the drug price display requirements. 'Enforcement will continue through inspections and advocacy until September 30, with reminder letters issued for non-compliance,' the statement said. Full enforcement, including penalties for repeat offences, will begin on January 1, 2026. The ministries acknowledged a judicial review filed by seven medical and dental organisations challenging the validity of the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering (Price Marking of Medicines) Order 2025. However, they clarified that no court order has suspended the initiative, meaning the regulation remains in effect. MOH and KPDN reiterated their commitment to implementing the policy in a structured manner to enhance transparency and consumer trust in Malaysia's healthcare system. - Bernama