GEORGE TOWN – The rate of Covid-19 infections in Penang factories have started to surpass the number of cases detected at its two state prison complexes.
Today, the state recorded 31 new cases, bringing the total number of cases to 2,680 and four deaths in the state since tabulations began in January.
In data made available to the media, state executive councillor Jagdeep Singh Deo said the number of clusters has remained at 15.
The north-east district of George Town has the most cases today at 17, while sub-district 12 and 13 are now classified as red zones.
There have been no deaths recorded today and 22 patients have been discharged, bringing total recoveries to 2,375 cases.
Meanwhile, the total number of Covid-19 cases originating from the Penang Remand Prison and Seberang Prai Prison is at 1,151.
The estimated combined number of cases suspected to originate from factories are now at 1,432.
The rest of the Covid-19 infections are from clusters related to old folks’ homes, residential and high-rise buildings as well as offices and commercial workplaces.
The data shows that there are 15 clusters active in Penang, whereas the state’s five districts have all recorded Covid-19 cases.
Penang Medical Practitioners' Society Association president Dr Parmjit Singh said that the state still continues to register a high number of cases, so the public must stay alert.
He said that they should continue to avoid crowded areas and wear face masks, and observe physical distancing and personal hygiene.
Former Malaysia Medical Council president Dr Ashok Kumar expects Covid-19 to linger until the fourth quarter next year even if vaccines are made available.
“It takes time to distribute and ensure that the needy ones are inoculated.”
For now, Dr Ashok said the people need to take precautions and build up their immunity while those with underlying conditions need to take extra care of themselves. – The Vibes, December 14, 2020
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