The latest report from the Health Ministry indicates a notable surge of 57.3% in COVID-19 cases, with a predominant 48% involving individuals aged between 20 and 40.
Health director-general Datuk Dr Muhammad Radzi Abu Hassan shared these statistics for the 47th epidemiological week (ME47/2023), spanning from November 19 to 25.
Highlighting that 98% of these cases exhibited only mild symptoms, Dr Radzi expressed concern about the escalating trend, encompassing 3,626 cases—a significant rise from the 2,305 cases documented in ME46/2023 (November 12-18).
Photo via The Star
The weekly cases have consistently surpassed 1,000 from ME41/2023 to ME47/2023, with a growth rate ranging from 7.1% to 57.3%.
Additionally, the admission rate of COVID-19 patients to health facilities increased to 2.9% per 100,000 of the population in ME47/2023 compared to 2% in ME46/2023, encompassing both suspected and confirmed cases.
Dr Radzi acknowledged the emergence of four new Omicron variants during ME47/2023 but assured that despite the rise in cases, the situation is under control.
He emphasised the ministry's commitment to monitoring the evolving scenario and various strains.
Urging vigilance among health workers in both public and private facilities, particularly regarding patients with acute respiratory symptoms and those in high-risk groups, Dr Radzi called for heightened awareness.
He reiterated the importance of the public adhering to preventive measures, emphasising the maintenance of high personal hygiene standards in the face of the ongoing health challenges.