‘Covid-19 respects no one’

PETALING JAYA: All Malaysians are equally at risk of being infected with Covid-19, unless they take the necessary precautions.

However, the risk is higher for some, depending on where they live and who they fraternise with.

For instance, those who live in cramped conditions where social distancing is impossible will face a higher risk.

It is therefore imperative that those who share their living space with others take greater precautions to protect themselves, Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) president Prof Datuk Dr M. Subramaniam told theSun yesterday.

“Others at high risk are those who have just returned from Sabah or those sharing rooms with these returnees.”

Subramaniam said people who have recently been to areas identified as “red zones”, where infection cases are high, should take extra care.

He advised those who had recently returned from Sabah or Kedah, which are now seeing the highest rates of infection, to isolate themselves.

“It is best for people who have returned from these two states to be quarantined for the mandatory 14 days at designated centres.”

Those who live in low-cost apartments where the population density is usually higher than average also face a bigger risk as it is difficult to observe social distancing, he added.

“For residents in these areas who have tested positive, home quarantine is not the answer.”

Subramaniam said poor communities, especially in the interior areas of Sabah and Sarawak, would need to be taught how to protect themselves.

“The government or non-governmental organisations should provide such communities with an ample supply of face masks, soap for washing their hands and hand sanitisers. These people may not be able to afford such items.”

Subramaniam said the issue of illegal migrants, especially in Sabah, should also be handled delicately. “If the infected in this group flee from authorities, they could spread the disease.”

The onus is on the people to ensure that steps are taken to halt the sharp increase in new cases.

“Work from home. Postpone meetings and events. Such measures can significantly reduce the infection rate.”

Success or failure in this battle depends on public compliance to standard operating procedures, he added.

Pantai Hospital respiratory physician Dr Helmy Haja Mydin said a targeted enhanced movement control order is the way forward to balance public health and economic needs.

Risks can be minimised with consistent messaging about the need for social distancing, washing hands and wearing masks, he said.

“It’s important to identify and isolate those with symptoms quickly. Self-discipline is important. Avoid unnecessary travel or meetings.”

Source: TheSunDaily