Adib Noor
While vaccination is not mandatory for children aged five-11 returning to school, it is highly recommended in protecting students from serious symptoms, said Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar at a press conference yesterday.
The minister said vaccination will greatly reduce risks of experiencing multiple inflammatory syndrome in vital organs in the age group, if infected with COVID-19.
The minister said 64.5 per cent of children aged five-11 had received the first dose of the vaccine, while 14 per cent received a second dose.
“The current vaccination rate is encouraging and shows that parents are concerned about the well-being of their children and are taking precautions for their safety,” he said.
“There are still a few days left before schools’ re-open for children aged five-11. I highly urge parents to allow or have their children vaccinated,” he said.
Schools re-open for the age group this Saturday. In-person classes for other age groups resumed in April.