KUCHING – All travellers arriving from abroad at Sarawak’s international point of entry will have to undergo a body temperature screening process, said the State Disaster Management Committee (SDMC).
In a statement today, the committee said those who have fever or symptoms, whether through self-declaration, self-referral or referral by the flight crew, will be given a slip for the purpose Covid-19 testing at a private or government clinic, and are required to take a Covid-19 throat swab test within 48 hours.
“If they test positive for Covid-19, travellers will undergo quarantine at their accommodation premises and be managed in accordance with the Guidelines for the Management of Covid-19 in Malaysia No.5/2020.”
SDMC decided to implement the preparedness strategy outlined by the Health Ministry on January 6 after assessing the Covid-19 situation and the increase in the number of individuals who have completed vaccination in Sarawak.
The committee said if the travellers tested negative but exhibited symptoms, they are advised to wear a face mask especially when in public places, gatherings or crowded places.
In addition, SDMC reminded the public that the protection provided by the Covid-19 vaccine will decrease after a certain period of time and it depends on the type of variant at that time.
“Therefore, the Health Ministry strongly encourages especially those at high risk to get vaccinated to reduce the probability of getting serious infections and death.
“Those who have not completed their primary or booster dose can make an appointment through MySejahtera or contact the nearest health clinic.”
SDMC said the Health Ministry is offering walk-in vaccinations at clinics and hospitals starting January 9 to those with comorbidities including chronic diseases, senior citizens aged 60 years and above, and individuals at risk of severe symptoms and complications of Covid-19 infection.
“Provision of Paxlovid antiviral drug treatment to eligible patients, are also provided to Covid-19 patients according to established guidelines.
“For this purpose, the ministry always ensures the availability of antivirals in all ministry-identified health facilities.”
SDMC said that in addition to the strategy outlined by the ministry, the public is advised to adopt a healthy and safe lifestyle to avoid the danger of Covid-19 and other infectious diseases.
“It is recommended to always practise TRIIS (test, report, isolate, inform, seek). For those at high risk, including individuals with comorbidities, it is highly recommended to wear a face mask, especially in crowded areas, such as large gatherings.
“Those with symptoms are also encouraged to wear a face mask and carry out a Covid-19 self-test.
“The ministry will continue to monitor the Covid-19 development within and outside the country and work closely with the World Health Organisation and Asean countries to ensure that appropriate prevention and control measures are implemented continuously.”
It added that the community needs to cooperate and take social responsibility and play their respective roles to comply with the standard operating procedures set. – Borneo Post Online, January 13, 2023
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