Penang fully prepared for any eventuality

GEORGE TOWN: Penang is free from the novel coronavirus and stringent screening measures are being taken at all entry points to the state.

State health committee chairman Dr Afif Bahardin said all the three points of entry are being closely monitored and there are no suspected cases to date.

“We have three points which are the Penang International Airport (PIA), Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal (SPCT) and Butterworth Port.

“Priority is given for screening at PIA and SPCT and the state is fully prepared for any eventuality,” he said at a press conference at the airport yesterday before checking the thermal scanner screening of passengers from two Taipei flights.

Penang International entry point designated health officer Izani Uzair, who briefed the media on the measures, said crew members were vigilant for passengers with symptoms such as cough and breathlessness who had not identified themselves.

“Among the standard operating procedure is the passengers identified will be given appropriate protective masks and be shifted away from the normal passengers and separate toilets will be designated.

“If there are suspected coronavirus infection cases, a public health team consisting of a medical doctor, nurse, medical assistant and assistant environmental health officer will be stationed at the arrival gates.”

The Penang Health Department also revealed that a total of 8,967 passengers were screened at the PIA on Sunday and Monday.

Afif also urged the people not to believe unverified viral messages on social media which could cause unnecessary panic.

“All the latest official news will be released by the state Health Department after verifying with the Health Ministry.”