In Kuala Lumpur, as in other airports, incoming passengers are having their temperatures checked. AFP Photo
KUALA LUMPUR: The Ministry of Health (MOH), through the National Crisis Preparedness and Response Center (CPRC), has received four suspected cases of 2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV), involving two cases each in Selangor and Sabah.
Health director-general Datuk Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah however said laboratory tests conducted on three out of the four suspected 2019-nCoV patients found them to be negative for the virus.
“A suspected case in Sabah is reportedly in stable condition in an isolation ward and still awaiting results of the test and the patient’s samples have been sent to IMR (Institute for Medical Research),” he said in a statement today.
It was reported that China has issued a quarantine order in Wuhan following the coronavirus outbreak which had so far killed nine people, and more than 400 people having been infected with the virus.
According to Dr Noor Hisham, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has called on its member countries to step up their level of preparedness to address the spread of 2019-nCoV.
In this regard, he said the ministry was prepared and had issued the medical procedure for the virus for reference purpose and will also cooperate with the relevant agencies to strengthen screening activities at all checkpoints into the country.
“Patient screening at the Health Clinic and the Emergency Department of hospitals is being strengthened to ensure suspected cases are referred to and managed through the prevention and control measures,” he said, adding that 26 government hospitals across the country have been identified to handle suspected 2019-nCoV cases.
Dr Noor Hisham said the patient will undergo screening test and the health authorities will be promptly notified for action to be taken, including ensuring there is adequate supply of medicines.
For those planning to go to Wuhan, China, he advised them to postpone their trip following the outbreak of the disease there, while those who could not postpone the trip to take the necessary preventive measures, while in the republic and also after arriving back in the country.
He said they should always maintain good personal hygiene like washing their hands frequently with soap water and soap or hand sanitizer.
“During the visit, they should always carry along face mask and hand sanitizer for use when necessary and refrain from going to crowded places and interacting with people having symptoms of the disease.
“They should also avoid visiting animal farms, going to markets that sell live animals and slaughter houses or touch the animals, as well as avoid eating raw or not well-cooked meat,” he added.
He also advised them to seek immediate medical attention if they have any symptoms of respiratory tract infections, such as fever, cough or difficulty to breathe within 14 days upon their return from the trip. – Bernama