Ensure protection for pregnant women given AstraZeneca vaccine, MP tells govt - Free Malaysia Today

PETALING JAYA: The government must ensure expectant mothers who have already been administered their first dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine are protected, former deputy women, family and community development minister Hannah Yeoh said today.

This comes after the National Covid-19 Immunisation Programme coordinating minister Khairy Jamaluddin was reported to have said yesterday that under the current clinical guidelines, only the Pfizer vaccine is suitable for pregnant women.

“While I welcome this clarification in view of the genuine fears and concerns shared by expectant and nursing mothers in relation to receiving the Covid-19 vaccination, the announcement came too late and caused great distress among mothers who have received their AstraZeneca vaccination,” Yeoh, who is Segambut MP, said in a statement.

She added that the government must immediately implement a number of measures in light of the fact that many pregnant women had received the AstraZeneca vaccine on a voluntary basis since May 5.

She called for all pregnant or nursing women who have received the first dose of the vaccine to be eligible for compensation through the vaccine injury fund under the National Disaster Management Agency.

“This would entitle them to between RM50,000-RM500,000 in compensation should they experience serious side effects,” Yeoh said.

She added that these women should also be provided with medically safe follow-up measures in relation to their second jab.

“Vaccination centres must also be instructed to ensure pregnant and nursing women are aware of the risks involved in getting these particular vaccines.

“The stress of being infected with Covid-19 is excruciating for pregnant and nursing mothers, what more the anxiety for having received an unsuitable vaccine,” Yeoh said.

“One life lost is one too many. This has to be a priority for the health ministry today.”