Another Covid-19 surge: 95 new cases, one more death

PETALING JAYA: Malaysia recorded 95 new Covid-19 cases on Friday (Sept 18), bringing the total number of infections in the country to 10,147, says the Health Ministry.

Health director-general Tan Sr Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah said that Sabah recorded the highest number of cases, with 91 local transmissions and four import cases.

He added that one new death was also reported, bringing the death toll up to 129.

Dr Noor Hisham said that the number of active cases climbed to 754,11 of which have been treated in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and two others were intubated.

Among the latest cases in Sabah were from the Benteng cluster (76), Pulau cluster (four) and Selamat cluster (three).

While in Negri Sembilan, one case was detected from the Bunga cluster.

"Close contact screenings and active case detection for all the four clusters are currently being continued.

"The latest update on the respective clusters will be updated from time to time," he said.

The Health DG also said there were 14 recoveries on Thursday (Sept 17), bringing the cumulative total to 9,264, or 91.3% of the total number of cases.

Dr Noor Hisham revealed that the deceased (case 10,145) was a 50-year-old Filipino woman.

"She experienced heavy coughing and breathing difficulties on Sept 14 and received treatment at a health facility.

"She was later referred to the Semporna Hospital for further treatment, but could not do so.

"The victim was found unconscious and rushed to the Semporna Hospital Sabah, where she was declared dead on Sept 14.

"Health screening showed that she tested positive for Covid-19," said Dr Noor Hisham.