As we transitioned towards endemicity, health experts have welcomed the government's move to loosen COVID-19 SOPs starting May 1st calling it a key step in the country’s transition to the endemic phase of the virus.
Among the relaxation of COVID-19 SOPs includes not having to wear face masks outdoors and no more physical distancing.
Photo via New Straits Times
Meanwhile, Health director-general, Tan Sri Dr. Noor Hisham Abdullah said that COVID-19 cases may go back up after the Hari Raya celebration, however, it is most likely to involve major cases in Category 1 and Category 2.
According to Utusan, 99.5% of the reported COVID-19 cases in the last two months involved Category 1 and Category 2. The number of patients admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) has been steadily decreasing.
DG Hisham added that the number of deaths has also decreased as well as the need for respiratory assistance.
The death rate was greater in July and August last year, however as a result of the increased vaccination rate, the number of mortality has started reducing in August, September, and the subsequent months.
So far, more than 99% of the adult population and 92% of teenagers have been fully vaccinated, while the booster dose has reached almost 70%!
Photo via Malay Mail
See, the vaccine works! Please get yourself the booster shot if you haven’t, guys. We’re all in this together!
We hope everyone had a great Hari Raya!
By: Aishah Akashah Ahadiat
