Stay motivated to remain vigilant

Even if it’s no longer a requirement, wear a mask if, for example, you have a fever and need to be out on public transport, to keep others safe, says Dr Hazli. — Others

WE must motivate ourselves to remain vigilant against any possible Covid-19 infection in the future by continuously learning about prevention measures.

Malaysian Psychiatrist Association president Dr Hazli Zakaria says there is a need for people to adopt a healthier lifestyle and better hygienic practices, other than becoming more conscious about other people’s health.

According to Dr Hazli, if there is anything to learn from the Covid-19 pandemic when it first broke, it is that Malaysians need to know more about their surroundings, and do have concern for others.

“Remember the hashtag #KitaJagaKita? We should continue to care about ourselves and others.

“We must improve our knowledge and awareness about diseases. About how they can affect us and others if we are not careful.

“This is one of the ways to motivate ourselves to remain vigilant over future outbreaks.”

Dr Hazli says, for instance, people can inculcate healthy practices in their households and take extra precautions when afflicted by fever.

He points out that Malaysians in general should have learned first hand about how unprepared the country was in the first days of the pandemic.

“Today, every household should already have test kits. And when you are down with a fever, the first thing you should do is to carry out a test. People are smarter now. They know better about oxygen levels and symptoms to look out for.

“This is because we have already taught ourselves the need to do so. That is how it should have been done.”

Taking things for granted will not bode well for everyone as there are still cases of infections taking place, he adds.

“We must remember that the pandemic is not over yet. The virus is still there despite the relaxing of Covid-19 preventive standard operating procedures.

“What is no longer enforced is the emergency. So it is up to us to take care of ourselves and the community.”

There is a need for people to adopt a healthier lifestyle and better hygienic practices, other than becoming more conscious about other people’s health. — Others

He says learning to be conscientious, especially about the health of others, should already have become second nature since the pandemic.

“For example, if you are having a fever but need to be out on public transport, just wear a mask. Keep others safe. This is one of the many ways you can protect others and yourself.”