Filipinos in Malaysia cautioned vs. rise of Covid cases

The embassy said there are no reports of new variants in the country except for the existing Omicron and its sub-variants. (Pexels Photo)

MANILA – Filipinos in Malaysia are advised to take precautions as the country sees an uptick in cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).

In an advisory dated December 20, the Philippines Embassy in Malaysia 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.

The embassy said there are no reports of new variants in the country except for the existing Omicron and its sub-variants.

“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,” it noted.

It reminded Filipinos 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.

Between December 3 and Dec. 16, the Malaysian Ministry of Health has logged over 33,000 Covid-19 cases.