By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, June 20: Malaysia has recorded its first Covid-19-related death this year, involving a patient with serious comorbidities who had not received a second booster dose.
In a statement today, the Ministry of Health (MOH) said that the individual, who suffered from heart disease and diabetes, passed away during Epidemiological Week 24 (June 8–14).
This marked a significant drop compared to 57 Covid-19 deaths reported throughout 2024, with the last fatality recorded on May 26, 2024.
Despite a 68 per cent spike in Covid-19 cases during the same week—3,379 cases compared to 2,011 the week prior—the MOH assured that the situation remains under control and below the national alert level, thanks to ongoing monitoring and effective public health interventions.
The ministry also reported that six patients with pre-existing conditions—including hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, dyslipidemia, and Down Syndrome—were admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and are currently under close medical supervision.
As a precautionary measure, MOH has urged high-risk groups—such as the elderly, those with chronic illnesses, immunocompromised teens, pregnant women, and healthcare workers—to get an additional dose of the Covid-19 vaccine. Individuals aged 18 and above may also receive the booster voluntarily upon medical consultation.
The ministry reiterated its call for Malaysians across all age groups, from infancy to old age, to keep up with necessary immunisations under the National Immunisation Programme, which are provided free of charge at selected government clinics. Appointments can be made through MySejahtera or by walk-in.
A full list of participating clinics is available here.
While Malaysia has transitioned into the Covid-19 endemic phase, the public is reminded to remain vigilant by washing hands frequently with soap or hand sanitiser, practising proper cough and sneeze etiquette, and wearing face masks when symptomatic or in crowded spaces. — DayakDaily
