KUCHING: The number of COVID-19 cases in the state is predicted to hit four digits with the dominant Omicron variant fast overtaking the Delta variant.
Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Dr Sim Kui Hian said the COVID-19 curve for the Omicron variant would go up very fast even though it was less severe as the Delta variant.
“In less than 10 days, our COVID-19 cases went from single to triple digits and it is predicted to move into four digits. We expect the curve to go up very fast, but it will also come down very fast in the next two months.
“The Omicron variant is not as bad compared to the Delta variant. However, the number of cases is going to be big, and we need to be careful,” he said on Thursday (Sept 10).
The Public Health, Local Government and Housing Minister urged Sarawakians to do their part in staying safe to ensure the number of COVID-19 fatalities did not increase.
“Last year we lost about 4,000 Sarawakians to COVID-19 and we cannot bring them back. We know that we may lose some Sarawakians to the Omicron variant no matter what safety precautions we take, but we hope the number will be as small as possible.
“I would like to remind everyone to be very careful and strictly adhere to the standard operating procedure (SOP), especially if you are in the high-risk group. Those who are in the high-risk group must conduct daily risk assessment as living with the COVID-19 virus involves a lot of self-testing and self-monitoring,” he said.
Dr Sim thanked Sarawakians for their solidarity in coming together during the pandemic.
“How successful a nation is depends on how it does in times of crisis; I am very proud that as Sarawakians we are doing so well together but we still have a bit more to go,” he added.
