Despite Covid-19 surge, Sabahans urged to remain calm

 By Olivia Miwil - October 18, 2020 @ 10:43am

Sabahans have been urged to remain calm despite the surge in Covid-19 cases in the state. - NSTP/MOHD ADAM ARININ

KOTA KINABALU: Sabahans have been urged to remain calm despite the surge in Covid-19 cases in the state.

Local Government and Housing Minister Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun explained that the number of cases is due to extended and targeted screening at 11 red zones in the state, implying that it does not necessarily reflect a rise in infections.

Sabah's red zones are Tawau, Lahad Datu, Semporna, Kunak, Tuaran, Penampang, Putatan, Sandakan, Papar and Kota Belud.

Sabah is now processing an average of 4,660 samples daily – a threefold increase compared to last month.

The samples are being processed at the Kota Kinabalu Health Laboratories, Queen Elizabeth Hospital's pathology unit, the National Public Health Laboratory in Sungai Buloh, the Institute Medical Research in Kuala Lumpur, and several private laboratories in Peninsular Malaysia.

"Although daily (Covid-19 cases in Sabah are high), people are urged not to panic and remain calm," said Masidi.

He said according to the state Health Department, Sabah recorded 451 Covid-19 cases and four deaths yesterday.

"The cumulative number of Covid-19 cases in the state is 6,737. Until now, 2,596 patients have recovered and 4,086 patients are still receiving treatment in hospital," he added.

Masidi, who is also state Finance Minister II, said he sought cooperation from those with symptoms and close contacts with Covid-19 to undergo immediate screening at nearby hospitals or clinics.

He added that it is crucial for people to take action to flatten the curve.

"To prevent the spread of Covid-19, all communities are urged to abide by the Conditional Movement Control Order in the state.

"This includes maintaining physical distancing, wearing face masks and using hand sanitiser and washing hands frequently."