Sabah is grappling with a sudden and drastic spike in COVID-19 cases, witnessing a staggering 315 percent surge in positive cases over the past week, as reported in Epidemiological Week (EW) 49/2023.
The surge, with 216 cases recorded, marks a stark contrast to the 52 cases reported in the preceding week, EW 48/2023.
Sabah’s COVID-19 Coordinator and State Minister of Local Government and Housing, Datuk Dr Joachim Gunsalam, expressed concern over the sudden increase.
He emphasised that all cases recorded in EW 49/2023 were of local origin, with an average of 19 new cases per day, a significant rise from the three cases per day reported in EW 48/2023.
“While there is an evident rise in positive COVID-19 cases in Sabah and across Malaysia, it is crucial to note that the situation is still under control,” stated Dr Joachim.
He urged the people of Sabah to practice self-care measures to mitigate the risk of COVID-19 infection. Additionally, he encouraged the use of face masks, particularly for those exhibiting symptoms, especially in densely populated public areas.
The COVID-19 report for EW 49/2023 revealed that no district in Sabah recorded a decrease in cases. Seventeen districts reported an increase, while ten districts did not register any new cases during the past week.
The districts reporting no new cases include Kudat, Kota Marudu, Pitas, Tambunan, Nabawan, Tongod, Semporna, Kunak, Kalabakan, and Telupid.
On the other hand, districts experiencing a surge in COVID-19 cases include Kota Kinabalu, Penampang, Kota Belud, Papar, Beaufort, Sandakan, Keningau, Ranau, Kuala Penyu, Tenom, Tuaran, Tawau, Putatan, Sipitang, Beluran, Kinabatangan, and Lahad Datu.
Kota Kinabalu district topped the list with 82 cases, a sharp increase from the six cases reported in the previous week.
Penampang followed with 21 cases, compared to zero cases in EW 48, while Papar recorded 18 cases, up from five cases the previous week.
Dr Joachim provided some relief by stating that there were no COVID-19-related deaths in Sabah over the past two weeks. Currently, 118 individuals are receiving treatment in hospitals for COVID-19.
Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, and the public is urged to remain vigilant, follow safety protocols, and seek medical attention if symptoms arise.
The increase in cases underscores the importance of continued efforts to curb the spread of the virus and protect the community.
