KUALA LUMPUR: The Health Ministry has 29,393 doses of influenza vaccine available at 420 clinics nationwide, with 320,000 doses procured in total. Of these, 150,000 were allocated for ministry staff, and 170,000 for senior citizens aged 60 and above, particularly those with co-morbidities like diabetes or hypertension. Dr. Dzulkefly Ahmad stated that over 200 clinics have run out of stock, but more vaccines are being acquired at RM14.90 per vial. A shortfall of 160,000 doses is still pending arrival.

He also noted that influenza cases dropped by 11% last year, and influenza-related deaths decreased by 68%. Senior citizens with chronic illnesses are eligible for free influenza vaccinations, with appointments available via the MySejahtera app.