Dr Meerasha (in red) with a resident of Selangor George V Silver Jubilee Home in Pudu, Kuala Lumpur, during the free vaccination drive.
THIS upcoming holiday season, senior citizens from two care homes in Kuala Lumpur are safeguarded against influenza through a free vaccination drive organised by a private hospital.
Personnel from Tung Shin Hospital visited the Selangor King George V Silver Jubilee Home (SKGV) in Pudu and Rumah Charis in Kuala Lumpur to administer vaccines as part of its "A Season of Care: Protecting Our Elders Together" campaign.
In a statement, Tung Shin Hospital medical officer Dr Meerasha Arumugham said vaccination is the "most crucial step" at this time, with increased social contact expected during the festive period.
"For a senior person, flu is never just a minor illness.
"It is a severe inflammatory event that can increase their risk of heart attack 10-fold and stroke eight-fold.
"Vaccination ensures their survival and well-being while contributing to herd immunity within these communal homes," she said.
The statement added that Tung Shin Hospital's mission was to bridge the vaccination gap among senior citizens by mobilising its team to reach the community directly.
A resident of Rumah Charis in Taman Yarl, Kuala Lumpur, receiving free influenza vaccination offered by Tung Shin Hospital.
"Tung Shin Hospital acknowledges that mobility issues, financial constraints and a lack of logistical support often leave elderly residents unprotected.
"Ensuring protection during this holiday season - delivered when and where it is most meaningful - provides both dignity and peace of mind," it read.
The hospital further described such protection as the "greatest gift" one can offer to those who have shaped society.
"Through this initiative at both SKGV and Rumah Charis, Tung Shin Hospital reaffirms its commitment to the underprivileged, highlighting the vital importance of preventive care and solidarity.
"This season of care is more than a gesture.
"It is a promise to our elders that they are seen, valued and protected," the statement concluded.