Masidi: Quarantine tag right after Covid-19 test compulsory

 

The quarantine wrist tag should be worn for 14 consecutive days after undergoing Covid-19 test, says Sabah Covid-19 spokesperson Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun. - NSTP file pic

KOTA KINABALU: The quarantine wrist tag should be worn for 14 consecutive days after undergoing Covid-19 test, said Sabah Covid-19 spokesperson Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun.

He said the standard operating procedure (SOP) was vital in order to break the chain of Covid-19 infection.

"People are advised to undergo screening tests as soon as possible if they have had contact with Covid-19 positive persons.

"We also remind them to follow the SOP by wearing the tag for 14 days after screening," he said in a statement, adding the wrist tag could only be removed at the district health office after the quarantine period was completed.

Masidi, who is also state Local Government and Housing minister, said 127 out of 346 cases were from close contacts screening in Kota Kinabalu, Lahad Datu, Sandakan and Kudat.

In Sabah, 346 cases have been discharged, leaving 2,373 cases still receiving treatment at hospitals and low risk treatment centres.

However, he warned of the possible surge of cases in the state capital, pending the results for 21,000 people at Kampung Numbak and Telipok settlements.

Sabah Health Department is conducting screening at both localities, currently under Enhanced Movement Control Movement.

Meanwhile, Befrienders Kota Kinabalu publicity director Jessie Ting said suicide cases in the state capital was at a worrying level and urged communities to look for warning signs among their family members and friends.

She said the signs included feeling hopelessness, prolonged depression, loss of interest, drastic change in behaviour, looking for ways to commit suicide, as well as abusing alchohol or drugs, among others.

"Befrienders would like to encourage everyone on the importance of communications and family support during these challenging times," she said in a separate statement, adding about 30 per cent of 1,375 callers between March and Oct this year claimed to have had suicidal thoughts.

Befrienders Kota Kinabalu can be contacted through call, Facebook messenger or email (befrienderskk@gmail.com). - NST