MIRI – There is clear evidence of an infection trend involving the Delta Covid-19 variant in Kuching and its surrounding districts, said advisor to the state Disaster Management Committee Datuk Dr Sim Kui Hian.
This transmission pattern is faster and more infectious as can be seen by the 1,216 new infections yesterday, of which 85% were in Kuching, Serian, Bau and Samarahan districts.
The state housing and local government minister said on social media that the people in Sarawak should be alarmed by this development, take the virus more seriously and ensure that they are well protected through the various personal protective equipment.
“We should be alarmed by the latest numbers of new cases, so that all of us can change our behaviour and be more responsible such as wearing masks, obeying social distancing, physical distancing and all the other SOPs (standard operating procedures).
“Greater Kuching accounted for 85% of cases in Sarawak now, reflecting a very typical pattern of the Delta variant among community transmissions.
“It comes with more infections, it spreads faster and earlier than can be detected especially in pre-symptomatic stages as it spreads by aerosol (airborne),” he said.
Yesterday, Sarawak also saw two more fatalities, raising the death toll to 477.
The Batu Kawah assemblyman added that Sarawak should continue to carry out PCR tests in as many localities as possible due to the presence of the Delta Variant.
He stressed that early detection and early treatment can be lifesaving. Furthermore, the high number of infections should prompt everyone to play their role.
He reiterated that Sarawakians should not live in “blissful ignorance” but must continue testing themselves.
“The sheer numbers of cases may cause an increase in deaths and brought-in-dead (cases),” he warned.
He said yesterday saw positive cases in 194 locations all over Kuching district alone.
Sarawak, along with Perlis and Labuan were pushed into Phase 3 of the National Recovery Plan last Wednesday, which allows more business sectors and social activities to take place. – The Vibes, August 8, 2021
