By Ling Hui
KUCHING, Jan 15: The Covid-19 Omicron variant may lead to milder symptoms than other variants in patients vaccinated with three doses, but it can still be fatal for those with low immunity.
Dr Ooi Mong How, a senior consultant paediatrician of Sarawak General Hospital (SGH) said the Omicron variant is only milder to those who are fully vaccinated plus boosted and without health problems.
“But for those who are ill with certain diseases such as cancer and have low immunity level, Omicron can be as dangerous as other variants. This is what I would like to emphasise to the public.
“News reports, articles and social media posts have been saying Omicron is milder, but let’s not forget those who have not been vaccinated,” he said during Kuching South City Council (MBKS) mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng’s Facebook live session today.
Dr Ooi was referring to babies and toddlers below five years old who are not eligible to be vaccinated yet while experts are still studying the right dosage of vaccines for the younger population.
As for children aged 5 to 11, he said the vaccination programme for them is about to roll out soon in February, probably after the Chinese New Year celebration, according to Deputy Chief Minister Dato Sri Dr Sim Kui Hian.
Despite the danger, Dr Ooi urged the general public not to panic as Covid-19, including the Omicron variant, is confirmed to be transmissible via airborne means like any other variant.
“It is an airborne infection. We can stay safe by breathing only clean air. Open windows and doors to ensure good ventilation, consider an air purifier if good indoor ventilation cannot be secured.
“Wear a high quality mask properly at all time, and avoid crowded areas, especially indoor venues,” he said.
Meanwhile, he strongly advised for all to get their booster shots as soon as possible. — DayakDaily
