THE Penang Health Department and other relevant agencies have been urged by the state government to brace for any possibility of rising Covid-19 cases due to the Omicron variant.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow has called upon the health authorities and other agencies to be fully prepared in order to deal with any challenge.
“We have urged them to be well-prepared and on the alert after our meeting on Monday.
“Every agency must monitor the situation from time to time and assistance must be provided if necessary,” he said after being asked by a reporter on the state’s preparation level in view with the emergence of the Omicron variant.
It was reported that the state had recorded 10 Omicron cases as of Jan 10 and all the victims had recovered and been discharged after treatment.
On the development of booster dose in the state, Chow pointed out that Penang has been gradually increasing the number of vaccination centres (PPVs).
“As of now, we have not received any reports of vaccine shortages, unlike when the first and second dose vaccinations were carried out.
“Hence, we hope that the number of private hospitals, private clinics and off-site PPVs can be increased from time to time.
“There are more than 100 private clinics, seven private hospitals, government hospitals, government clinics and several off-site PPVs in the state. The off-site PPVs are in Sunshine Square in Bayan Baru, Flextronics Technology in Bukit Minyak, Pesta Expo Site in Sungai Nibong and others,” he said.
At present, Chow said about 40% of eligible people had been vaccinated with booster dose and we expect a full vaccination rate by the end of next month or early March.
“Vaccination remains the key against the pandemic and I hope everyone can check their MySejahtera app frequently on their appointment date for the booster,” he added.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Muhamad Amir Irsyad Omar
Video by Noor Siti Nabilah Noorazisa