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By Karen Bong
KUCHING, June 30: Individuals need to wear face masks when ill, even when it’s just the flu, particularly for childcare providers, to prevent the spread of illness to children under their care.
Minister of Women, Childhood, and Community Well-being Development Sarawak Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah emphasised the importance of this measure in preschools and kindergartens to minimise the risk of transmission among the children.
“This is because teachers and caretakers spend significant time with the children, from half a day to a full day.
“But following the Covid-19 pandemic, I think it is essential for individuals to wear face masks when they are ill as a preventive measure against spreading the illness to those around them,” she told reporters today.
She pointed out that this is especially important in various educational institutions, including primary and secondary schools, as well as healthcare facilities that deal with the public to protect the well-being of the people.
Fatimah was met after officiating the closing ceremony of the Women Leadership Training Camp for the Federation of Chinese Association Women Section held at a restaurant in Aeroville today.
She also welcomed the updated Covid-19 guidelines announced by the Ministry of Health (MOH), where face masks are no longer mandatory on public transport and in healthcare facilities, while the isolation period for Covid patients has been reduced from seven days to five.
“This is good news indicating the positive progress in controlling and managing the spread of Covid-19.
“But now it is largely up to individuals to wear face masks. It is still important to be mindful of the risk factors, particularly in crowded areas and when experiencing illness,” she said.
While mask-wearing may no longer be mandatory, Fatimah added that individuals should recognise the significance of wearing face masks and act responsibly to protect themselves and those around them. — DayakDaily
