As Covid-19 spikes, Health DG wants all to follow SOP during Sabah polls

COVID-19 | In light of the upcoming Sabah election and a spike in Covid-19 cases in the state, Health director-general Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah has urged all quarters to abide by the ministry’s standard operating procedures (SOPs) to minimise the risk of infection.

Sabah alone registered 62 new cases in the past 24 hours as of noon today.

Campaigning begins on nomination day this Saturday (Sept 12) until the midnight before the Sept 26 polling day.

Asked for the ministry’s advice on the election, Noor Hisham stressed that SOP adherence was key.

“The ministry wants to remind all to abide by SOP, whether they are healthcare workers or non-healthcare workers.

“To Malaysians, especially those in Sabah, follow SOPs by avoiding the 3Cs - crowded places, confined spaces and close conversation. And practicing the 3Ws - wash your hands with soap and water; wear a facemask in public places and take heed of the ministry’s warnings.

“If we follow SOPs, God-willing, we can avoid being infected. But if we have gatherings and there is no social distancing, and if we don’t wear a mask or wash our hands, the risk of infection will increase,” he answered.

Some of the ministry’s general warnings when it comes to Covid-19 are to avoid touching others, practice proper coughing and sneezing etiquette, and seek immediate treatment when symptoms occur.

It also advises the public to stay at home if possible, avoid visiting other homes, and to disinfect high-contact areas.

A full list of recovery movement control order SOPs for all sectors can be found on the National Security Council website.

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