Getting a COVID-19 vaccine in Malaysia is a new (and possibly, nerve-wracking) experience for everyone. While mentally preparing for your appointment, you might be wondering about the things to do and not to do when getting a COVID-19 vaccine in Malaysia. If you're looking for some answers, here are some tips to help you out!
P.S. If you haven't registered, click here to find out how to register for a COVID-19 vaccine in Malaysia!
Before getting a COVID-19 vaccine in Malaysia
What to do
- Learn more about the COVID-19 vaccine you're receiving from reliable sources like Malaysia's Ministry of Health, The Special Committee on Covid-19 Vaccine Supply (JKJAV) or World Health Organisation (WHO).
- Confirm your vaccination appointment via MySejahtera
- Prepare for your appointment such as finding out the location of your vaccination centre or choosing a comfortable outfit with short sleeves or removable jacket or cardigan.
- Bring identification card or passport, your phone with MySejahtera app installed, a pen, and a portable charger
- If you have any medical conditions, bring any relevant medical letter or medical report from your doctor, as well as a list of your current medication(s).
What not to do
- Don't skip your meal. Eating does not have any clear effect on the vaccine's effectiveness, but it can help to prevent you from dizziness and fainting - especially if you feel uneasy with needles.
- Try not to show up too early at your designated PPV as it will cause unnecessary crowding. Aim to arrive about 15 minutes before your vaccine appointment.
After getting a COVID-19 vaccine in Malaysia
What to do
- Find out the date of your second vaccine appointment
- Protect your COVID-19 vaccine card because you'll be using the same card for your second vaccination appointment
- Rest at home. The side effects typically kick in about 12-15 hours after the jab and can vary from person to person. If you're feeling unwell, request for a medical leave from work.
- Have a meal. Some side effects like nausea may caused you to lose appetite, but do eat light meals like porridge to keep your energy up.
- Get a good night's sleep to allow your body to recuperate
What not to do
- Not wearing your mask. Even though you've been vaccinated, continue to wear a face mask when you're out and about.
- Not practice social distancing and good hand hygiene. It's best to continuously protect yourself against COVID-19 variants.
- Post your COVID-19 information on social media. Vaccination card contains personal information, so we recommend covering them or not post on social media at all.
What was the experience like getting a COVID-19 vaccine in Malaysia?
Our writer, Ili shared her experience getting AstraZeneca vaccine in Malaysia. She includes tips on how early you should arrive to your vaccine appointment and how to prepare yourself for the side effects. Read these handy tips to get yourself ready for your COVID-19 jab.
We hope this article answers some of the questions you might have about things to do and not do when getting a COVID-19 vaccine in Malaysia!