As Malaysia continues to speed up their nationwide COVID-19 vaccinations, Tan Sri Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah (Director-General of Health of Malaysia) has recently shared that the National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Division (NPRA) will be considering the inclusion of the Sinopharm vaccine in the National Covid-19 Immunisation Programme.

According to Malay Mail, the decision will come after almost a month’s long evaluation process of the Sinopharm vaccine dossiers by the NPRA. For those of you who are curious about this new possible vaccine being available to Malaysians, here's what we know so far about the Sinopharm vaccine.

Sinopharm Vaccine In Malaysia - Here's The Breakdown

What is Sinopharm?

Sinopharm is an inactivated virus vaccine that's been manufactured by Sinopharm's Beijing Institute of Biological Products in China. Also known as BBIBO-CorV or BIBP vaccine, Sinopharm is currently approved in 56 countries including Maldives, UAE, Thailand and Indonesia.

What are the side effects of Sinopharm vaccine?

Interestingly, common side effects of COVID-19 vaccines like fever and fatigue were found to be uncommon when it comes to Sinopharm.

Is Sinopharm vaccine safe?

Yes, the Sinopharm vaccine is safe to use. The World Health Organization (WHO) has given the vaccine emergency approval in May. Plus, the WHO Strategic Advisory Group of Experts (SAGE), has made a thorough assessment of its data on quality, safety and efficacy and has recommended its use for people aged 18 and above.

Is Sinopharm vaccine suitable for pregnant women?

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the Sinopharm vaccine is an inactivated vaccine with an adjuvant that has been used in many other vaccines with good efficacy, including in pregnant women.

Where to get Sinopharm vaccine in Malaysia?

At the time of writing, citizens and non-citizens in Malaysia will not be able to receive the Sinopharm vaccine until it has been approved by the NPRA. It is also not available for purchase in any public or private hospitals and clinics in Malaysia.

P.S. If you haven't already, make sure to register for COVID-19 vaccine via MySejahtera to get your vaccination appointment.