Thirty staff members from Sultan Abdul Halim Hospital in Sungai Petani, Kedah have contracted more infectious variants of Covid-19.
Harian Metro quoted state executive councillor (health and local government) Dr Mohd Hayati Othman as confirming that those infected comprised doctors, nurses and hospital cleaners.
It also reported that they had been infected with the Delta and Beta variants.
The Delta variant (B.1.617) originated from India. It is more transmissible and moderately resistant to vaccine-induced immunity.
The Beta variant (B.1.351) originated from South Africa. It is similarly more transmissible and more resistant against Covid-19 vaccines.
Hospital continues operations
According to the article, Hayati said some departments have been temporarily closed for sanitisation but the rest of the public hospital will continue operating.
“The hospital has not been closed and not all departments have been closed. Only certain wards have been closed for sanitisation.
“The Emergency Department is operating as usual.
“However, for those who need to do follow up treatment at specialist clinics, appointment dates will be rescheduled,” he was quoted as saying.
Hayati advised members of the public not to worry as the outbreak was being addressed by the state Health Department.
Speaking to Kosmo!, he denied a viral text message that claimed the hospital had more than 30 Covid-19 cases and had been placed under an enhanced movement control order (MCO).
“Allegations that the hospital is a virus hotspot is quite outrageous. Some clinics like outpatient clinics have been closed for sanitisation but other matters like childbirth and driving by to pick up medicine - these are still allowed.
“Cases from other hospitals will not be referred here. These cases will be referred to other hospitals such as Sultanah Bahiyah Hospital in Alor Setar,” he was quoted as saying.
Kedah recorded 198 new Covid-19 infections and one death yesterday. - Mkini
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