GEORGE TOWN – The Penang government has been forced to deal with a barrage of enquiries via its Covid-19 Facebook page on the whereabouts of patients in the state who have been infected with the virus.
The page, named ‘Penang Lawan Covid-19.’ and parked under the communications portfolio headed by Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, has received numerous questions on this matter.
Some concerned netizens even wanted to know the patients’ home addresses.
However, the page administrator has politely responded that the state is unable to disclose details and stressed on the need to protect patients’ privacy.
“Please remember the patient's house is just ONE of the places he/she went before tested positive. This person could have visited 10, 20, 30 or more places in the past week,.” the administrator said in a comment.
When contacted, a state official told The Vibes that there have been many queries for the specific locations, in districts or sub-districts, of the patients and their addresses.
“We want to inform again that we cannot share that information because the Ministry of Health has never shared that information with us or the public.
Moreover, even if we know, we cannot share it. Why? Because the Medical Act 1971 outlines a rule that patient’s information cannot be disclosed,” the official said.
“The dissemination of unverified information is dangerous and could lead to public disorder. We urge everyone to obtain information about the latest situation on Covid-19 only from official channels as these have been verified by the relevant authorities.”
Asked about the victims’ neighbours spreading information about them, the official said that witnesses can make an official police report against such activities, as spreading information without a patient’s consent is against the law.
The official reiterated that it is better to follow standard operating procedures (SOPs), such as in avoiding contact with public surfaces, practising social distancing, washing hands with soap or using hand sanitiser, avoiding crowded places and wearing a face mask.
Meanwhile, Covid-19 cases in Penang are increasing steadily.
Penang recorded 33 new Covid-19 cases yesterday, with 266 active cases. Fortunately, the cases in Kedah have dwindled to just eight.
Perlis has no new cases. However, one new infection broke the northernmost state’s clean streak three days ago. – The Vibes, November 18, 2020
