WHO: Be prepared for possibility of wider COVID-19 transmission

KUALA LUMPUR (Feb 12): The World Health Organisation (WHO) has advised all countries, including Malaysia, to prepare for “the possibility of a wider transmission of COVID-19”.

WHO regional director for the Western Pacific, Dr Takeshi Kasai said in a statement today that the COVID-19 coronavirus “may be more transmissible than early data had suggested”.

“There are now reports of clusters of cases with no apparent link to China… We must be ready in case there is a wider spread. This requires action today, because preparations take time, especially to ensure that the response reaches everyone in all parts of the country,” Dr Kasai said.

“This does not mean that the virus will start spreading easily within Malaysia or elsewhere tomorrow, or perhaps ever – of course, we hope that it won't,” he added.

“Responding to wider transmission would require shifting the focus of activities to protect the vulnerable and minimise the health and social impact. If we don’t prepare now, we will not be able to activate those plans when they are needed.

Kasai explained that if there was a “wider community transmission”, Putrajaya would need to ensure that health facilities can “focus on treating the most vulnerable and severe cases”.

“This may mean planning to switch away from medically isolating or quarantining everyone who is infected, to encouraging people with mild illness to stay at home to recover — so that health care facilities do not become overwhelmed.

“Steps must also be taken to ensure health facilities do not become places that amplify the virus’ spread, infecting staff and other patients,” said Dr Kasai.

He added that there was a need “to consider the possibility of closing schools or postponing mass gatherings, if necessary, to reduce opportunities for the virus to spread.”

“I understand why people are worried, as this is a new disease and there is much we still don't know. The best thing we can do is to be prepared.

“In addition to those measures governments can take, we all share a collective responsibility to take simple measures to protect not just ourselves as individuals, but our communities, including the most vulnerable,” he said.

“Wash your hands — frequently, and thoroughly. If you are coughing or sneezing, cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or your elbow. Keep your distance — we recommend at least 1 metre — from people who are unwell.

“If you’re sick, stay home so you don’t risk infecting others — and seek medical care if you have trouble breathing,” Dr Kasai explained.

He also called on people not to circulate rumours and misinformation online.

“When people have the wrong information, they can make decisions which actually harm themselves, and others.”