KUALA LUMPUR: The Covid-19 situation in Malaysia remains stable and has shown a significant downward trend compared to last year, with no deaths recorded so far this year.
The Health Ministry said as neighbouring countries report an increase in cases, the number of Covid-19 cases in Malaysia up to Epidemiological Week (EW) 19/2026 had declined by 12.6% (9,682 cases) compared to the same period last year.
"Although there was a 0.7% increase (575 cases compared to EW18/2026), the situation remains under control.
"This is because the vast majority of reported cases only involve mild symptoms that do not require hospital treatment, and no Covid-19-related deaths have been recorded thus far this year," the ministry said in a statement on Sunday (May 24).
The ministry said ongoing genomic sequencing had also detected several new subvariants in the community, but they did not show any tendency to trigger a serious wave of infections.
"The ministry will continue to strengthen traveller screening at international entry points and cooperate with the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS) in monitoring activities and public health preparedness to ensure early detection and immediate action can be implemented should there be an increased risk of Covid-19 transmission from abroad," it said.
The ministry said Covid-19 infections are now being managed under the category of common respiratory tract infections, such as the common cold and influenza.
In this regard, the public is advised to continue practising self-care measures, including maintaining hand hygiene, wearing face masks when symptomatic or in crowded areas, and receiving vaccinations.
"Vaccination is highly encouraged, especially for high-risk groups such as senior citizens, individuals with chronic illnesses, immunocompromised groups, and pregnant women, to reduce the risk of infection complications.
"These vaccination services are available at selected government health clinics nationwide," the statement said.
Recently, Singapore was reported to be monitoring a rise in Covid-19 cases after 12,700 cases were recorded for the week of May 10 to 16, compared to 8,000 cases in the previous week. - Bernama
