British pharmaceutical firm GSK recently conducted a knowledge sharing session to educate Malaysians on the importance of immunisation through vaccinations. Upon recognising the need for a comprehensive understanding of vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs) in the country, the session shed light upon the prevalence of VPDs in Malaysia and the reality of the situation on the ground. The session also addressed how the country may tackle pre-conceived notions and scepticism surrounding vaccines that have been embedded in the minds of many people over the years.
Dr Thanabalan Fonseka, Vaccines Medical Director at GSK Malaysia, spoke about the importance of vaccination as a foundation of building up immunity against VPDs, especially for infants and young children.
GSK Malaysia has launched the Protectors Malaysia website to inform and educate Malaysians on VPDs, how it spreads, their symptoms, their impact on health, and how to protect oneself from these diseases. Immunisation through vaccination is one of the best ways children and adults can protect themselves from potentially harmful diseases.
“GSK supplies more than 20 vaccines to more than 120 countries to help protect people from a range of diseases throughout their lives. Our strong pipeline is underpinned by a broad portfolio of technology platforms, that will ensure we continue to deliver highly innovative vaccines,” said David Lin, Director, Communications, Government Affairs & Strategic Customer Solutions, GSK Malaysia & Brunei.