PETALING JAYA: Most people view the announcement by the Health Ministry to shorten the interval before receiving booster shots from six to three months as positive.

       Assistant registrar Tan Sophine, 27, said she is ready to get her booster shot, adding that it is better to get it earlier than later to keep up the body’s antibodies against the virus.

       “Since the Omicron variant is spreading like wildfire, I want to get my booster shot as soon as possible to keep myself protected.

       “Many countries such as Canada and Australia have also shortened the interval,” she said.

       Tan, who received her second shot of AstraZeneca four months ago, said she is not worried about the side effects of the vaccine.

       “I believe I experienced the worst when I received my first dose.

       “Since I have not received any appointments yet, I plan to go to the nearest clinic available to get my booster shot after the New Year celebration.

       “I guess I will be sleeping late and enjoying myself during this period, so it is better for me to get the shot after the celebration,” she quipped.

       It is the same for lawyer Kelvin Ho, 27, who also believes that the Health Ministry has made the right move in shortening the interval.

       “Many countries such as the United Kingdom and Australia have introduced shorter intervals for booster shots and it has proven to be effective.

       “I have no concerns about the shortened interval. In fact, I am keen to receive my booster shot and, similarly, have no worries about the side effects,” he said.

       Ho added that he has obtained both doses of Pfizer via the Kuala Lumpur Bar Committee’s vaccination initiative.

       “I am not sure about the current arrangements but I hope to get it as soon as possible.

       “I don’t mind putting my name on the waiting list at a clinic,” he said.

       Housewife R. Sareswary, 37, said she too is ready to receive the booster shot to protect her family and children.

       “As my children are going back to school soon and one of them has not been vaccinated, I want to get my booster jab as soon as possible to protect my seven-year-old daughter.

       “I have been fully vaccinated since August and with the shortened interval, I may be able to receive my jab anytime now,” she said.