Mixed feelings about AstraZeneca vaccine
KUCHING: Residents here have mixed feelings about AstraZeneca (AZ) Covid-19 vaccine as the state mulls getting the vaccine as an option.
Malcolm Mejin, 35, author, was worried after reading many articles online shunning AZ vaccine. However, after much research, he figured it is generally safe for those without pre-existing medical conditions.
“I’d take it if there are no other options available. My first choice would be Pfizer, of course,” he said.
Ong Wei Ling, 34, student, is wary of the vaccine and does not plan to opt-in as it is still on trial. He would rather wait and see after more people have taken the vaccine.
“If it is proven to be a good vaccine, I might consider it but not now. For now, I will do my best in keeping myself safe if I have to go out as prevention is better than cure.”
For freelance human resource consultant and freelance photographer, Aishah MoorsMohd Ali, 59, the vaccine is widely used and from what she have read online, the risks of blood clotting is there but very much less than flying or taking the contraceptive pill.
Moreover, data for the vaccine is generated in well-established regulatory countries, thus she personally trust AstraZeneca, Pfizer and Moderna vaccines more than Sinovac or Sputnik.
“First of all, look at all the successful countries rolling out the vaccine like UK, US and Israel.
“Their infection rates are way down, so the only thing that matters is getting jabs in arm!” she said.
“I would be first in line to receive the vaccine in Sarawak. If I could, I would urge the state government to get as many vaccines from well reputed companies as soon as possible.
“If higher cost is an issue, just allow private healthcare to issue AstraZeneca vaccine and even if I have to pay I would get it immediately!
“The only way out of the health crisis is vaccination and anything that speeds up getting shots in arms I support!”
OnThursday, State Disaster Management Committee advisor Dato Sri Dr Sim Kui Hian revealed that Sarawak Covid-19 Advisory Group will reconsider the state’s initial decision not to accept AstraZeneca vaccine.
He said in a Facebook post that AZ vaccine which Sarawak had initially turned down due to public concerns over its side effects could be rolled out with vaccines purchased by the state government next month.
Covid-19 vaccines currently being administered in the state are Pfizer-BioNTech and Sinovac.
First of all, look at all the successful countries rolling out the vaccine like UK, US and Israel. Their infection rates are way down, so the only thing that matters is getting jabs in arm!
Aishah Moors-Mohd Ali