KJ: Heightened Alert System Will Be Introduced Soon To Detect Increase In Covid-19 Cases

As the reported Covid-19 cases are showing an uptrend recently, many have raised their concerns if we are bound for another wave of the virus which may consequently lead to another series of lockdowns. 

Yesterday (21 November), Health Minister, Khairy Jamaluddin had revealed that a heightened alert system will be introduced by the Ministry of Health (MOH). The purpose of the alert system is none other than to detect the early signs of rising Covid-19 cases in the country and tighten some sectors should there be an increase, as reported by Astro Awani.

However, Khairy assured that a total lockdown will not be implemented.

“We want to avoid lockdowns, if possible. It doesn’t just disrupt the economy, but also mental health and family well being,” he explained while also highlighting that the people cannot afford another lockdown. 

In the meantime, he also urged the public to not take things for granted in terms of SOPs compliance especially when the nation has transitioned into Phase 4 of the National Recovery Program (NRP). This is because while the level of MOH’s health system is still under control, they are seeing the early signs of an increase in cases.

Despite the condition has not paralysed the health system, the admission into the hospitals which have mostly involved categories 4 and 5 recently are worrying him. Just this morning (22 November), Khairy shared on Twitter and reminded the public to take their booster shots as hospitalization is increasing which involved the elderly or those with comorbidities that were infected by close contacts.

He will provide an update on the heightened alert system in a week or two.

We managed to flatten the curve before, and we can certainly do it again. Mask up whenever you are in the public and take the booster shots when your appointment is up!

Also read: “No more blanket MCO” PM Assures No More Full Lockdowns Even If Covid-19 Cases Increase Again