No new Covid-19 variants in Malaysia, says Dr Zaliha

PETALING JAYA: No new Covid-19 variants have been detected in Malaysia despite an increase in the number of cases globally, says Dr Zaliha Mustafa.

The Health Minister said the uptrend has been seen at the end of each year and is also reported in other countries.

"There is an increasing number of Covid-19 cases reported globally. In Malaysia, this increase follows the trend seen at the end of each year, which is also observed in other countries,” she said.

"However, most Covid-19 cases in Malaysia experience mild symptoms and do not require hospital treatment," added Dr Zaliha in a statement on Thursday (Dec 7).

Dr Zaliha said that the Covid-19 variant that is still circulating in Malaysia is the Omicron variant with subvariants known to have a high rate of transmission, but do not cause severe cases.

"Despite the increase in cases, the current situation in Malaysia is still under control and does not burden the existing healthcare facilities. The ministry remains prepared to face any possible eventualities," she said.

She called on the public to practice self-care measures, such as maintaining a high level of personal hygiene and wearing a face mask for those experiencing symptoms.

If symptoms worsened, she said the public should consult a doctor and receive Paxlovid antiviral treatment at the nearest health clinic for those who tested positive for Covid-19 and are at high risk.

"The public can also receive their primary dose of the Covid-19 vaccine at health clinics to reduce the risk of transmission.

"The ministry will continue to monitor the Covid-19 situation and variants from time to time," she said, adding that people should not spread unverified news to avoid confusion and public unrest.