Puchong Church Member Tests Positive for Covid-19, Contact Tracing to Be Carried Out

Covid-19 shows no signs of abating as more and more cases are being confirmed around the world. Now, the most recent update in Malaysia is that a member of the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe (OLOG) has tested positive for Covid-19.

According to The Star, the parishioner from the Puchong Catholic church tested positive for the coronavirus on Thursday (March 5th). The member has since been admitted to the Sungai Buloh Hospital. Chancellor Rev Fr Michael Chua from Chancery of the Catholic Metropolitan Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur said that they will be cooperating fully with the Health Ministry.

“We are waiting for more details and further direction from the Health Ministry (MOH). We anticipate that the MOH will begin the exercise of contact tracing. Both the parish and the Archdiocese will offer our fullest cooperation to expedite this matter,” he added.

Meanwhile, the parish priest of OLOG, Fr Albet Arockiasamy, had informed the other parishioners about the case and they have started to carry out preliminary contact tracing. “Fr Albet has also informed his parishioners, especially those who have been identified as having had close contact with the patient to undergo testing, to isolate themselves from any public activities, and monitor their health for the next 14 days. He is prepared to implement any further measures required by MOH,” Chua explained said.

The OLOG is currently undergoing thorough cleaning and sanitation so that the place is safe. However, the church will still be open for mass this weekend. The Catholic Archbishop of Kuala Lumpur Most Rev Julian Leow has also gone a step further by commissioning a special crisis task force.

This team will comprise of clergy, medical doctors and chancery staff and they will be tasked with helping to monitor the development of the crisis, address issues quickly as well as reviewing and recommending safety guidelines for the local church.

“In order to avoid unnecessary fear and panic, we call upon all Catholics to refrain from disseminating unverified news and information on Covid-19,” Chua advised. He added that parishioners should continue to pray for God’s protection and care.

Stay safe out there, everyone!

Also read: 40yo Woman Contracts Covid-19 in ONE Minute After Taking Same Lift As Infected Person