Vaccine demand rises amid regional surge in Covid-19 cases

The Star

a day ago

GEORGE TOWN: Medical practitioners here are seeing a renewed interest in vaccination and booster shots, particularly among vulnerable populations, amid a concerning surge in Covid-19 cases in neighbouring countries.
General practitioner Datuk Dr Parmjit Singh said the revived interest is in response to locals being highly vigilant given the rising numbers of the new variant of Covid-19 in Thailand and Singapore.
'It is essential for eligible indivi­duals to be up to date with their vaccinations to maintain strong protection, especially against emerging variants,' he said here yesterday.
He also said that while the Covid-19 situation in the country may appear stable, it has not been eradicated.
'Malaysians are encouraged to stay up to date with vaccinations, practise good hygiene, wear masks in crowded or enclosed spaces and seek medical attention if symptoms develop.
'Continued public awareness and responsible behaviour are key to preventing another surge in cases.
'New variants may spread across borders through travel and community interactions,' he said.
Dr Parmjit also said that there is no definitive evidence that dry weather can cause a spike in Covid-19 cases.
'Weather changes can influen­ce human behaviour. People may spend more time indoors in air-conditioned spaces during hot, dry seasons, which could increase the risk of virus transmission.
'The spread of the virus is dependent on factors such as popu­lation density, vaccination coverage, public health measures and individual behaviour,' he said.
Penang health committee chairman Daniel Gooi said Penang experienced notable spikes during major holidays or festive periods due to increased travel, relaxed precautions and social gatherings.
'While there is no evidence that dry weather increases Covid-19 transmission, in Malaysia, hot and dry conditions may lead to more indoor gatherings. This could facilitate virus spread,' he said.
It was reported that neighbou­ring countries like Thailand and Singapore are facing an emergence of subvariants derived from the Omicron strain of Covid-19, which are more contagious, leading to a surge in cases.
Gooi said while cases have dropped in Penang, it is important to remain vigilant as records from Jan 1 to May 31 last year showed 2,714 cases, while 1,594 cases were recorded during the same period this year.
'No deaths have been recorded so far this year, and the state Health Department continues to monitor respiratory-related clusters in Penang.
'High-risk groups (the elderly and persons with chronic illnesses) are advised to avoid crowded indoor areas.
'The vulnerable groups (elderly, comorbidities) are still encou­raged to get updated boosters as they can help protect them in case of exposure to those with Covid-19,' he said.
Retired teacher B. Premala, 68, who has been vaccinated and took one booster jab in 2021 as well, said she was not keen on taking a fourth jab.
'I am careful and mask up when I go to crowded places.
'I am aware that because of my age, I am susceptible to viruses, but I am cautious,' she said.