Omicron subvariants more contagious, public urged to stay vigilant

New Straits Times

2 days ago

KUALA LUMPUR: The emergence of subvariants derived from the Omicron strain of Covid-19, which are more contagious, has led to a surge in cases in neighbouring countries such as Thailand and Singapore.
As a result, public health experts are urging Malaysians to remain cautious and adopt preventive measures similar to those practised during the peak of the pandemic, especially among high-risk groups.
Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia community health specialist Professor Dr Sharifa Ezat Wan Puteh said subvariants such as LP.8.1 and NB.1.8.1 are more transmissible, although they do not appear to cause severe illness compared to earlier variants.
"These subvariants are classified as Variants Under Monitoring (VUM) by the World Health Organisation (WHO).
"If infected, the symptoms are generally mild, such as cough, cold, and low-grade fever, and most people recover within a few days.
"However, we cannot predict when a more severe variant might emerge, so it's important to continue self-monitoring and remain vigilant," she said.
Recently, both Thailand and Singapore have reported a sharp rise in Covid-19 cases.
Thailand recorded 65,880 new cases and three deaths between May 25 and May 30, while Singapore reported an estimated 14,200 cases from April 27 to May 3 —up from 11,100 the previous week — with 133 hospital admissions.
In Malaysia, Melaka reported a more than 20 per cent increase in Covid-19 cases last week, with 93 new cases recorded in Epidemiological Week 23 (June 1–7).
Dr Sharifa Ezat advised the public to wear face masks in crowded places, especially when travelling abroad, and to maintain good personal hygiene.
"High-risk groups such as individuals with comorbidities, the elderly, pregnant women, and children should be especially careful. Even common symptoms like a cough or mild fever can escalate in these groups," she added.
Meanwhile, Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia senior lecturer and public health specialist Dr Mohd Hafiz Jaafar, said increased public awareness has made it easier to detect Covid-19 cases.
"Additionally, recent activities such as school holidays and festive celebrations have contributed to increased movement and interaction.
"However, the overall impact does not appear to require widespread hospitalisation, as most cases involve only symptom management," he said.