GEORGE TOWN – The rising number of Covid-19 cases in Penang may be perceived as the state losing its battle against the virus, but the detection of infections through screening drives is key to successfully tackling the pandemic.
According to screening statistics in the state, 2,949 people returned positive results out of 38,474 tested between July 18 and 24.
From July 25 to 31, 4,309 cases were found in a screening of 55,335 individuals.
The positivity rate for both weeks is 7.66% and 7.79%, respectively.
Senior consultant paediatrician Datuk Dr Amar-Singh HSS told The Vibes that more tests still need to be conducted.
Though the screening figures in Penang are good, they can be improved, he said.
“We should increase tests until the case rate is 5% or below.
“We need more data from testing, not just by state, but by district. Only then can we see what’s truly happening.”
He said it is important to look at the ground data that shows where exactly infections are occurring.
“This is why we are always asking for granular data. Even statewide data is not enough.
“We need to look at all the districts.”
Giving the example of a large state like Perak, he said the situation in the Kinta Valley may not be the same as that in other districts.
Penang yesterday logged 776 coronavirus cases, with Seberang Prai Selatan accounting for 208, followed by Seberang Prai Tengah (186), Seberang Prai Utara (142), Northeast district (131) and Southwest district (95).
The state two days ago saw a record 1,022 infections. – The Vibes, August 7, 2021
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