FILIPINOS in Malaysia are advised to take precautions as coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) in that country is again on the rise.

The Philippines Embassy in Malaysia, in an advisory dated December 20, said there is a sudden increase in Covid-19 cases but government health facilities are capable of handling any surge, and that Malaysia is ready to mobilize other facilities if required.

“In view of the rise of Covid cases in Malaysia, Filipinos in Malaysia are advised to take precautionary measures to protect oneself and others from Covid, such as social distancing, practicing good hygiene, wearing masks indoors or at crowded spaces and getting booster shots, especially for those in the high-risk categories,” it said.

There are no reports of new variants in the country except for the existing Omicron and its sub-variants, it said.

“The predominant Omicron sub-variants in Malaysia are the XBB.1.16, XBB.1.5, and EG.5.5, which are known to be highly transmissible, but generally do not result in severe cases.”

Filipinos were also told that the Malaysian government also offers booster shots for all, and appointments may be made through the MySejahtera app or they may simply walk into any health facility.

The Malaysian Ministry of Health has recorded over 33,000 Covid-19 cases from Dec. 3 to 16.

AUTHOR PROFILE

Cristina Lee-Pisco