Malaysia’s Health Ministry is updating its standard operating procedures (SOP) after the World Health Organization (WHO) ended the global health emergency for COVID-19. Health Minister Dr. Zaliha Mustafa announced that these revisions reflect the ongoing assessment of Malaysia’s current COVID-19 status and WHO’s latest guidance.
.@DrTedros declared yesterday that a global health emergency of #COVID19 is over, but the virus is here to stay & is still a global health threat.
🎙 Join today's #AskWHO live Q&A with @DrMikeRyan & Dr @mvankerkhove to hear more about the way forward in managing this virus ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/twmcyVBeHg
— World Health Organization (WHO) (@WHO) May 6, 2023While the nation has gradually relaxed certain restrictions since April 2022, the ministry remains committed to implementing strategies and containment measures to keep the virus under control.
As part of the new SOP, mandatory mask wearing will primarily apply to individuals diagnosed with COVID-19 and those visiting healthcare facilities, in line with Infection Prevention and Control practices. The ministry also strongly recommends mask wearing in crowded or poorly ventilated areas, especially for high-risk individuals like senior citizens, those with chronic diseases, and pregnant women. Individuals experiencing respiratory distress and those using public transportation are also advised to wear masks.
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In addition to the revised mask protocol, the ministry has shortened the isolation period for confirmed COVID-19 cases from seven to five days. This change is based on research showing maximum infectivity within the first five days of symptom onset. These updated mask and isolation guidelines will be effective from July 5.
The Declaration of Infected Local Areas in Malaysia, set to expire on June 30, has been extended for another six months to continue enforcing provisions under the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Regulations 2022. Dr. Zaliha noted this was crucial due to the potential emergence of new COVID-19 variants and an anticipated increase in mass gatherings during the upcoming celebrations and elections.
Despite WHO’s announcement ending the global COVID-19 emergency status on May 5, the organization stressed the virus still poses a significant global health threat.
This news is based on an article in the Malay Mail.
