Selangor Journal
State executive councillor for public health and environment Jamaliah Jamaluddin speaks during an interview with Media Selangor at her office in the State Secretariat Building, Shah Alam, on November 6, 2023. — Picture by NUR ADIBAH AHMAD IZAM/SELANGORKINI

State anticipates spike in Covid-19 cases ahead of holidays, urges extra precaution

By Selangor Journal Team

SHAH ALAM, Dec 15 —  The Selangor government is expecting a surge in Covid-19 cases in the coming weeks in view of the school holidays that begin tomorrow and Christmas celebration on December 25.  

State executive councillor for public health Jamaliah Jamaluddin said these occasions are set to result in a rise in movements and social gatherings, increasing the potential risks of infection. 

In this regard, she urged the public to take extra precautionary measures to avoid being infected. 

In a statement today, Jamaliah noted that Selangor recorded almost a two-fold increase in Covid-19 cases in the 49th epidemiology week (December 3-9) with 4,326 infections, compared to 2,278 the previous week.

The overall Covid-19 death rate in the state from January 1 to December 9 stands at 0.2 per cent of positive cases, she added. 

“With this in mind, the state government advises the public to always take preventive measures to avoid infection,” she said. 

Among other things, Jamaliah urged the public to avoid visiting crowded places, especially if they are symptomatic, 

The public is also encouraged to wear face masks, especially in confined or crowded spaces. 

“This practice is especially important to protect high-risk groups such as the elderly, individuals with chronic diseases, those with low immune systems, and pregnant women.” 

The people are also advised to take care of personal hygiene and frequently wash and sanitise their hands, especially after coming into contact with surfaces that are often touched. 

Jamaliah urged the public to practice the test, report, isolate, inform and seek (TRllS) protocol if experiencing any symptoms and consult a doctor if symptoms become more serious.

People are also encouraged to get their primary and booster doses of the Covid-19 vaccine to reduce the risk of infections, morbidity and death.

“The state government calls on all residents of Selangor to always abide by health guidelines and carry out their responsibilities in fighting the spread of Covid-19 for the sake of everyone’s safety and well-being,” she said.

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