Main image via The Star
The month of Ramadan is approaching and this means two things;
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Ramadan bazaars
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Following SOPs
Although the bazaars are allowed to operate this year (unlike last year), we’re still reminded to be cautious of our surroundings and to always follow the SOPs set.
Now, Malaysian doctors are urging food handlers to make sure they’re vaccinated against typhoid before the Ramada season kicks off.
Image via The Star
No, this is NOT the same as COVID-19 vaccine. Typhoid fever is a systemic infection that spreads through food and drinks contaminated with a type of bacteria, which is transmitted through oral-faecal transmission.
This infection can be caused by a few known reasons like bad hygiene practices, poor sanitation and the non-availability of clean drinking water. Dr Marzuki, associate professor at University of Malaya said that getting vaccinated is as important as washing your hands with soap and maintaining good hygiene. A single injection could ensure immunisation and protection against the fever among adults and children aged two and above.
Academy of Occupational and Environmental Medicine Malaysia (AOEMM) council member, Dr Anza stressed that it could take up to three weeks for the immunity to appear after injection. Hence, it is important that food handlers get vaccinated now to protect themselves and consumers in order to ensure a safe celebration.
Image via The Sun Daily
Bazaars will bring a large group of people together, so it is vital to maintain SOPs and take preventive measures as advised by health officials. Also, considering the COVID era we live in now, early prevention is always a better idea.
So, if you’re a homegrown food handler, get yourself vaccinated for typhoid soon. If you’ve already been vaccinated, then you’ll have to revaccinate every three years.
By Piravina Ragunathan
