COVID-19 cases to peak in Malaysia

WHO reports spike in COVID-19 cases in Malaysia
Image adapted from: PDRM

Malaysia has been showing signs of progress while tackling COVID-19, with strict measures taken for Phase 2 of the Movement Control Order (MCO) and rising numbers of recovery rates. And it’s been giving us small but certain wins to celebrate and keep us hopeful for a virus-free future. 

But before we can wave that Malaysia boleh flag high and proud, the World Health Organisation (WHO) says that COVID-19 cases are expected to peak in mid-April in Malaysia. This is based on several key factors, including the end of MCO that is currently set at 14th April 2020. 

Rise in COVID-19 cases in Malaysia

World Health Organization
Image credit: Council on Foreign Relations

Malaysia currently sees over a 100 new COVID-19 cases daily, which has us on our toes with announcements made by the Ministry of Health (MOH) each day. As of 3rd April 2020, Malaysia still has the highest number of COVID-19 cases in Southeast Asia with a total of 3,333 confirmed cases and counting.

In a statement to Reuters on 2nd April 2020, WHO’s Head of Mission and Representative to Malaysia, Brunei, and Singapore said that while predictions aren’t set in stone, there’ll be a further increase in cases for hospitalised and ICU patients with COVID-19 in April.

Extended MCO to be announced if needed

New MCO restrictions
Image credit: PDRM

As reported by Malay Mail on 2nd April, Health director-general Datuk Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah says that a decision to extend MCO further will be made on 10th April, with new restrictions announced if needed. 

This extension will be based on whether or not Malaysians continue to abide by MCO, and if cases continue to spike in Malaysia. 

WHO warns that a spike would happen if movement control regulations are relaxed once the strict measures are lifted on 14th April.

Expected peak in COVID-19 cases in April

Precautionary measures have been taken by MOH, including setting up standby quarantine facilities to treat COVID-19 patients and stricter Phase 2 MCO measures. 

WHO’s prediction for a spike in cases in mid-April is a grave reality should people continue to defy MCO orders. So it’s important that we all continue to stay at home and only leave for necessities to help flatten the curve as well.

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