KULIM, Feb 9- The private sector and state government are encouraged to collaborate in implementing the National Influenza Immunization Program for the elderly, which will commence on February 18.

Deputy Health Minister Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni stated that the program involves approximately 170,000 recipients nationwide.

"I strongly encourage any private sector or state government that wishes to collaborate on this program. For example, during COVID-19, state governments like Selangor and Sarawak made efforts on their own to increase the number of vaccinations," he said.

He spoke to reporters after officiating the Kedah Sejahtera 2025 Carnival in conjunction with the launch of the Kulim Wellness Hub and the handover of keys to the Northern Zone Medical Records Center at the Kulim Wellness Hub.

Additionally, appointments for the vaccination can be made through the MySejahtera application starting February 14.

The vaccination is open to elderly individuals aged 60 and above, and it can be administered at selected locations or clinics.

Elderly individuals are encouraged to receive the vaccination for their own well-being, and the number of vaccines available is limited.