GEORGE TOWN – The Penang Covid-19 Screening (PSC-19) exercise yesterday recorded 54 cases as the state government continues to root out the spread of the coronavirus in the island state.
The screening identified 48 cases from Bandar Prai Jaya screening centre in Prai while six cases were recorded at the Dewan MPKK Sg Dua in Batu Uban.
PSC-19, which has been running for the past two weeks, has conducted 4,908 screenings and 5,825 registrations to date.
The state government has allotted 40,000 free screenings under the initiative.
The first week of screening saw 35 cases while the second week recorded 116, for a total of 151 cases so far.
Penang exco Jagdeep Singh Deo said the screening team will continue to remain mobile within the state.
“Screenings will take place at six more locations by the end of this week. So far, we have completed our screening exercise at nine different locations.
“I advise people to register to be screened, but you can also walk in to get tested. Doors are open until 5.30pm,” he added.
On Friday, free screenings will run at Dato’ Haji Ismail Che’ Chik Hall, Bakau Tua, Penaga, and Penang City Stadium, Jalan Dato Keramat.
On Saturday, screenings will be at Bandar Putra Bertam Multipurpose Hall and Taman Terubong Jaya Market and Food Complex.
On Sunday, screening will be conducted at the Tg Bungah Market and Food Complex carpark, while a drive-through screening will be conducted at Batu Kawan Stadium, Simpang Ampat.
Meanwhile, Penang Medical Practitioners’ Society president Dr Parmjit Singh said Covid-19 screening will still be essential even after the entire population in Penang is vaccinated.
“The state government pushing for everyone in the state to be vaccinated by October is an excellent move.
“However, the vaccine doesn’t protect us from being infected with the virus as it provides only antibodies.
“Therefore, screening still has to go on and will not end after everyone is vaccinated,” he said.
Residents and individuals who wish to undergo testing can register via the Penang Saring portal, or via their respective rep service centre or coordinator. – The Vibes, July 19, 2021
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