Kota Kinabalu: Sabah recorded a 356 per cent surge of Covid-19 cases, from 216 in the 49th epidemiology week to 984 the following week.
Sabah’s Covid-19 spokesperson Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam said the 50th epi week (Dec 10 to 16) recorded one death, compared to zero in the 49th epi week (Dec 3 to 9).
Kota Kinabalu topped the list with 413 cases compared to 82 the week before, followed by Penampang (109), Tuaran (100), Kota Belud (66), Papar (62) and Putatan (60).
“Twenty one districts recorded a rise in cases in the 50th epi week compared to the 49th epi week, namely Kota Kinabalu, Penampang, Tuaran, Putatan, Kota Belud, Papar, Beaufort, Sandakan, Lahad Datu and Keningau,” he said in a statement.
The others are Kota Marudu, Sipitang, Telupid, Tawau, Semporna, Tambunan, Pitas, Tenom, Kudat, Kinabatangan and Tongod.
Dr Joachim added that the average daily number of active cases for the 50th epi week increased by 353 per cent, from 19 to 86 cases.
“The number of Covid-19 patients receiving treatment increased by 55 per cent, from 86 cases to 133,” he said.
In view of the Covid-19 situation, Dr Joachim urged the public to take precaution and the necessary steps to curb the spread of Covid-19.
“The use of face masks in public areas for those at risk and symptomatic is encouraged. Those who have not received their primary and booster vaccinations are advised to contact the nearest Health Clinic in order to reduce risk of infection.
“The public is also advised to practise optimal personal hygiene such as frequent hand washing.
“Practise TRIIS (Test, Report, Isolate, Inform and Seek) if you show Covid-19 symptoms.
“Those at risk are advised to obtain Paxovid antiviral treatment at the nearest Health Clinic,” he said.
Dr Joachim said close contacts showing symptoms are encouraged to self-quarantine and carry out self RTK-Ag tests on the day symptoms start and on the third day.
