Beware, Covid-19 is still around

Penang’s health committee chairman, Daniel Gooi, advised the public to exercise caution as Covid-19 cases surged, to help contain the spread of the virus.

“People should wear face masks in crowded areas and wash their hands regularly. 

“These are basic precautionary measures that we should adopt. We must also closely monitor the health of all our family members,” he said, reported The Star. 

Gooi said that despite the expected rise in domestic tourists arriving in Penang this week, there are no plans to implement extra measures during the long weekend.

On June 28, Penang reported 47 new cases, bringing the total of active cases to 312 as of June 29. Among these, 305 individuals were placed under home quarantine, while seven required hospitalisation.

Penang Hospital infectious disease unit head Datuk Dr Chow Ting Soo outlined four crucial steps to prevent the spread of Covid-19.

“In view of the waning immunity post-vaccine, the elderly and high-risk group should continue to wear masks, regularly sanitise their hands and avoid closed-space gatherings as much as possible.

“Secondly, this group should get tested immediately if they show Covid-19 symptoms, and get the antiviral as soon as possible.

“Thirdly, family members of the patients should also take a test and self-isolate if unwell to prevent the spread of the disease.

“Lastly, home isolation is still necessary, as well as wearing face masks for one week. If you need to go out, wear a face mask in public if you have cough or flu symptoms. Consult a doctor if your condition worsens,” Dr Chow said.

Dr. Chow said that these four steps are also applicable to food handlers and restaurant workers.

The Health Ministry is preparing to announce updated COVID-19 standard operating procedures (SOPs) as the country adjusts to living with the pandemic, said Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad on June 27.

A check on the Health Ministry’s portal, KKMNow, reveals that there are 11,595 active cases of Covid-19.