MIRI – Omicron infections are spiralling with new cases detected among the community in the interiors of central Sarawak.
The districts of Kuching and Samarahan in southern Sarawak and the central districts of Sibu and Kapit are now infection zones, with community spread being discovered.
“There have been 36 more Omicron infected patients detected over 11 days from January 1 to 11 in Kuching, Samarahan, Sibu and Kapit,” said Universiti Malaysia Sarawak Institute of Community Health and Medicine director Prof Dr David Perera.
Dr Perera, in a press statement today, said the new Omicron cases are on top of Delta infections that are still spreading.
“There were 212 Delta cases found in December plus six more so far in January.
“There were eight Omicron cases found in December plus 36 more from January 1 to 11.
“Avoid mass gatherings, even as the festive Chinese New Year (CNY) is coming. The new cases found also involved community spread,” he warned.
He also said the public must not take the latest findings lightly.
“All SOPs (standard operating procedures) must still be obeyed strictly, even as the CNY preparations are taking place. As for the vaccination, booster shots are very important.
“Those without the booster vaccine should go for it soonest.
“It will be of great help in preventing the infections of all types of variants and mutation of Covid-19,” he stressed.
Dr Perera said his institute has forwarded the latest findings on Omicron to the state Disaster Management Committee. – The Vibes, January 15, 2022