Over the past number of months since Malaysia entered what was termed as the ‘Endemic Transition’ phase, a number of previously mandated protocols have since been loosened or scrapped entirely. Most notable among them include the obligatory use of face masks in public spaces both indoors and outdoors, as well as social distancing between individuals.
XBB Omicron variant may lead to increase of local Covid-19 cases
With that said, Malaysians are once again reminded to keep vigilant and wear a mask on in crowded and enclosed spaces with poor ventilation, after cases of the XBB Omicron sub-variant have been detected in Malaysia.
In a post on the matter that was shared to social media, Ministry of Health Director General Tan Sri Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah has said that the more infectious strain of the coronavirus could potentially lead to an uptick in case numbers come this November and December.
Given that likelihood, Malaysians, especially those who are at-risk of infection, are also strongly urged to obtain their second booster shot.
“The reinfection rate of the XBB subvariant increases to 17%, as compared to the 5% witnessed in the Omicron variant, among those who have previously tested positive.” he said.
In a projection graph that was supplemented in the Facebook post, cases may potentially return to the 4,000 to 5,000-mark by the middle and end of November 2022.
Those eligible advised to obtain their second booster
A reference guide was also provided to advise those who are keen on obtaining their second booster dose. Teenagers over the age of 12, regardless of their health status, may obtain their second booster dose six months after their first booster.
On the other hand, adults over the age of 18, regardless of their health status, as well as pregnant women, can obtain their second booster dose six months after their first booster.
Malaysia is expected to receive the Bivalent vaccine from pharmaceutical giant Pfizer, which will arrive sometime later this month and be made available as a booster. To date, 4 confirmed cases of the XBB subvariant have been found locally thus far. As of yesterday evening (November 7th, 2022), 2,521 new Covid-19 cases were recorded in the country.
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