Woman who defied travel ban triggers new Covid-19 cluster

 By Olivia Miwil - May 24, 2021 @ 10:02pm

Sabah Covid-19 spokesperson Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun said the woman came to Taman Deluxe on May 15. She tested positive for Covid-19 four days later. - Bernama Pic

KOTA KINABALU: A woman from Semporna who defied the inter-district travel ban and visited Kota Kinabalu to celebrate Hari Raya Aidilfitri with her children has been identified as the index case of the Taman Deluxe Covid-19 cluster.

Sabah Covid-19 spokesperson Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun said the woman came to Taman Deluxe on May 15. She tested positive for Covid-19 four days later.

It remains unknown for now as to how she was able to cross district lines. Sabah had imposed an inter-district travel ban from May 10 to 16 except for emergencies and essential services.

"Based on initial investigation, it is believed that the 68-year-old housewife from Kampung Bubul Batu 2 was probably infected in Semporna between May 13 and 15.

"As of 12pm today, the cluster has amassed 12 cases. Further investigation is still being held to trace the source of infection," he said in a statement.

The state also recorded another new cluster from Kampung Padawan in Papar. The cluster is believed to have originated from a funeral at Kampung Padawan on May 17.

A 50-year-old woman from Kampung Dambai in Inanam and her three children, all with symptoms, had tested positive at the district health clinic. Six more people from her family were also infected.

The Papar Health office has also conducted 113 screening tests for others who attended the funeral.

"Based on early information and observation, the Covid-19 infection likely spread during the funeral which saw the attendance of close family members from several districts.

"During the three-day event, they failed to comply with the standard operating procedures including by eating together and holding large gatherings at night."

Sabah today recorded 184 new Covid-19 cases.

Meanwhile, Masidi also announced that for Wesak Day celebrations this Wednesday, only religious leaders were allowed at houses of worship minus members of the congregation.

Each session can last only an hour and can be held between 6am and 2pm.

Non-religious institutions, meanwhile, can only hold 1/3 capacity or 50 people at any one time, whichever is lower.

Masidi added enforcement personnel will be on duty to monitor the situation.