KUCHING, Dec 13: The Ministry of Health (MoH) is encouraging people to prioritise wearing masks, particularly during festive visiting and gatherings, in light of a nearly twofold increase in new Covid-19 cases within a week.
During Epidemiology Week (EW) 49, the country witnessed a substantial surge with 12,757 reported cases, up from 6,796 cases in EW48 covering the period from Nov 26 to Dec 2 this year.
Health director-general Datuk Dr Muhammad Radzi Abu Hassan stressed the potential for an escalation in cases due to travel and gatherings associated with the upcoming Christmas, New Year, and the school holidays starting on Dec 16.
“Consequently, the MOH is appealing to the public, especially those with symptoms, to wear masks when visiting one another to protect not only oneself but also family, neighbours, and close friends from the risk of Covid-19 infection,” he said in a statement today.
Dr Muhammad Radzi also advised people to put on face masks when in close proximity and crowded places, especially those in high-risk categories such as senior citizens, those with chronic illnesses or low immunity and pregnant mothers.
“Continue to monitor one’s health and maintain a high level of hygiene by frequently washing hands or using sanitiser.
“Practice TRISS (test, report, isolate, inform, and seek) when symptomatic. Immediately see a doctor for a check up and further treatment if symptoms worsen, especially for high risk groups,” he urged.
Additionally, Dr Muhammad Radzi encouraged people to get both their Covid-19 vaccine primer and booster shots to reduce the risk of spread, morbidity, and fatality, especially among those in the high-risk category. — DayakDaily
