GEORGE TOWN – The Penang government is concerned that there are people infected with Covid-19 who are not reporting the matter to the authorities.
Penang Welfare, Caring Society and Environment exco Phee Boon Poh cautioned the public, saying that the numbers reported daily are not the actual number of cases, as there are still cases that go unreported.
Many are taking Covid-19 self-test kits as they are so accessible and affordable right now – but many prefer to self-medicate and quarantine at home if found positive, and also do not refer or report it to the relevant authorities, he said to The Vibes.
Phee said he has spoken to people who would rather not go to the hospital after testing positive for Covid-19.
Despite his attempt to convince them, some do not believe that medical personnel can aid them.
“Some believe in traditional medication and even spiritual medication. In such a culturally diverse state, you need to understand that there are many types of people who believe in different things.
“Therefore, the figure reported every day is not the real figure. How many are unconfirmed, no one knows,” he said.
Phee also pointed out that Penang’s official daily new Covid-19 numbers have been floating in the 200s to 300s for the past few weeks without any sign of abating, indicating that it is impossible for the state to reach zero cases again.
In such a scenario, he said, it is vital for the authorities and society to aim to achieve zero cases in a bid to curb the menace.
Phee said that it is however impossible for any place in the world to have zero cases.
“There are cases even in restricted places like prisons. How the virus enters, nobody knows,” he said.
“How does an open place, with the state borders open, then reach zero Covid-19 cases?
“However, zero continues to be our target because it inspires us to work harder. If we don’t have that target, there will be no challenge. It will be surrendering without putting up a fight,” he said.
Penang reported 220 fresh Covid-19 cases yesterday, the lowest reported number in two weeks. – The Vibes, November 17, 2021
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