Malaysia and the world are experiencing a surge of Covid-19 cases. Infections are expected to increase, but Health Minister Datuk Seri Dzulkefly Ahmad said there is nothing to worry about.
There was a 62.2 per cent rise in Covid-19 cases for the 50th Epidemiology Week (Dec 3-9) in Malaysia, which saw 20,696 new infections, up from 12,757 a week ago.
Dzulkefly, who took office last Thursday for a second stint as health minister, said the healthcare system is ready for any eventualities.
Dzulkefly said the ministry would strengthen the Covid-19 Management Plan through five strategic points:
- Early detection of Covid-19 cases and SARS-CoV-2 variants.
- Empowering the community through TRIIS – Test, Report, Isolate, Inform and Seek medical help.
- Monitoring of health facilities, management and control of Covid-19 cases, especially to protect high-risk groups.
- Empowering communities through effective risk communication.
- Digitisation of the health system in pandemic management through the MySejahtera application.
He also told a press conference that:
- There are no plans to reintroduce the Movement Control Order for now.
- Hospitals are ready for a surge of cases, and the ministry is looking at surge capacity planning.
- They will get reinforcements from the private healthcare sector. The army and other agencies are ready to mobilise and reinforce facilities if required.
- No need to scan the MySejahtera application when entering buildings.
- Those who test positive must report via MySejahtera to prevent underreporting.
- Home Surveillance Orders and Covid-19 vaccine appointments will be via MySeajhahtera.
- Recommend second vaccine boosters for senior citizens and those with chronic diseases.
Meanwhile, health director-general Datuk Dr Muhammad Radzi Abu Hassan said the rise in cases is a global phenomenon and is expected to continue for four to six weeks.
He added that there are enough vaccines for now, and the government is in the middle of getting the new version of the vaccines.
He added that anyone can walk into a clinic to get a booster jab without an appointment.
To ensure the spread of Covid-19 is kept to a minimum, the ministry advises the public to avoid the 3Cs – crowds, congested areas and close contact, and follow the 3Ws – wash hands frequently, wear face masks and warn if you have any symptoms.
It also encouraged those who test positive or are in the high-risk category to go to government or private clinics to get the Paxlovid antiviral treatment.
