Gatherings main cause of surge in Covid-19 cases — Health director

KUCHING: The significant increase in new Covid-19 cases in Sarawak this year is largely due to new clusters caused by gatherings, says Sarawak Health director Dr Chin Zin Hing.

In a statement yesterday, he said the finding was based on an analysis by Sarawak Health Department, coupled with those violating the operating procedures (SOP) such as physical distancing, not wearing face masks properly and practising hand hygiene.

Dr Chin said among the main contributors to the significant increase in new cases in the state this year were funerals which caused four clusters. Each cluster in Sibu, Beluru, Kapit and Kuching recorded 25 to 2,000 cases.

Dr Chin added that social gatherings had resulted in 11 clusters of 17 to 61 cases each with three clusters in Kuching, two in Samarahan, and one each in Serian, Sri Aman, Kapit, Julau, Betong and Bau.

Five workplace clusters also contributed to the increase with two in Bintulu, and one each in Matu, Meradong and Sri Aman, with between 10 and 35 cases each.

One cluster in Miri which recorded 187 cases was from a wedding, added Dr Chin who reminded Sarawakians that Covid-19 virus is already in the community just waiting for the opportunity to spread.

“The mode of infection occurs either in a crowded place, confined space, interacting or talking at close range (close conversation), and while eating or drinking when the face masks are removed,” he said.

As such, Dr Chin said Sarawak Health Department is appealing for cooperation to avoid large gatherings as the risk of contracting Covid-19 is high and to continue compliance with the SOP at all times.

“Sarawak Health Department is also advising the public to protect their families and colleagues by not exposing themselves to the risk of Covid-19 infection. High risk occurs when individuals participate in large gatherings and subsequently infect family members and co-workers.

“Therefore, the public is urged to take wise actions to curb Covid-19 in Sarawak,” concluded Dr Chin.