Kelantan Health Dept Records 52.9 Pct Immunisation Coverage For MRSIA

KOTA BHARU, Sept 24 (Bernama) -- The Kelantan Health Department has achieved 52.9 per cent coverage after 48 days of implementing the Measles and Rubella Supplementary Immunisation Activity (MRSIA).

Its director, Datuk Dr Zaini Hussin, said as of Sept 20, a total of 48,396 children aged between six and 59 months had received the MR vaccine, equivalent to 52.9 per cent of the overall target of 91,500 children in Kelantan.

“Of this number, 96.7 per cent are citizens while 3.3 per cent are non-citizens. The programme is open to all children regardless of their existing vaccination status,” he said in a statement today.

Three districts recorded coverage exceeding 60 per cent, namely Jeli (81.0), Tanah Merah (67.5), and Bachok (65.2).

Seven other districts recorded coverage of between 40 and 60 per cent, namely Pasir Puteh (54.8), Pasir Mas (53.2), Machang (53.0), Tumpat (51.7), Gua Musang (50.2), Kota Bharu (44.6), and Kuala Krai (48.8).

“However, based on data from the Family Health Unit, 12.8 per cent of parents and guardians remain hesitant to bring their children for the MR supplementary immunisation,” he said.

He urged all parents and guardians to bring their children for vaccination to protect them from measles and rubella, as well as to strengthen herd immunity, adding that community cooperation is vital to achieve the 95 per cent coverage target by the deadline on Oct 12.

-- BERNAMA