Number of Covid-19 cases in Johor up threefold this week

JOHOR BARU: A total of 109 Covid-19 cases have been reported in the 49th epidemiological week (ME49) for the Dec 3-9 period compared to ME48 (Nov 26 to Dec 2) with 34 cases.

Johor health and unity committee chairman Ling Tian Soon said the Covid-19 situation in Johor remains under control.

"In general, 3,430 Covid-19 cases have been reported from January to Dec 9 this year in Johor.

"At the moment, less than 5% of hospital beds are being used to treat Covid-19 patients.

"65 cases are being treated at hospitals while four cases are being treated in intensive care units," he said in a statement here on Monday (Dec 11).

Ling said due to the increase in Covid-19 cases, the public is encouraged to avoid crowded, confined spaces and close conversation while practising the 3W (wash, wear, and warn).

Meanwhile, on dengue fever, Ling shared that 249 cases have been reported in ME49, an increase of 18% from 211 cases in ME48.

"77 cases are in epidemic localities and 172 cases were in non-epidemic localities," he said, adding that the highest number of cases reported was in Johor Baru with 183 cases.

Although no deaths involving dengue were recorded during ME49, the public is advised to always monitor their surroundings and ensure that there is no stagnant water that could allow mosquitoes to breed, he added.

"As of Dec 9 this year, we have recorded 20 death reports involving dengue compared to only six cases in the same period last year," he added.