The Ministry of Health Malaysia (MOH) has reported a surge in COVID-19 cases globally, echoing similar trends in several neighboring countries. In Malaysia, this increase aligns with the customary end-of-year pattern observed in other nations. The majority of COVID-19 cases in Malaysia exhibit mild symptoms and do not necessitate hospitalization.
For the Epidemiological Week 49 (EW 49/2023), a total of 12,757 COVID-19 cases were reported, compared to 6,796 cases in EW 48/2023 (November 26, 2023, to December 2, 2023). The overall COVID-19 mortality rate from January 25, 2020, to December 9, 2023, stands at 0.72%.
Regarding hospital capacity, the admission of COVID-19 patients (including suspected cases) to non-critical care beds has increased to 1.4%, compared to EW 48/2023. Similarly, the utilization of Intensive Care Unit (ICU) beds has risen to 1.4%, and the percentage of COVID-19 patients requiring respiratory assistance has increased to 0.5%. Despite the upswing in COVID-19 cases, the current situation in Malaysia remains under control, and healthcare facilities are not unduly burdened.
In EW 49/2023, 26 new Omicron variants were reported, consisting of 21 Variant of Concern (VOC) cases and 5 Variant of Interest (VOI) cases. To date, no new variants have been detected in Malaysia. The prevailing Omicron variant in Malaysia includes subvariants XBB.1.16, XBB.1.5, and EG.5. Although known for its high transmissibility rate, this variant has not resulted in severe cases.
MOH anticipates a potential increase in COVID-19 cases due to movements and gatherings during the Christmas and New Year celebrations, as well as the upcoming school holiday season starting on December 16, 2023. Consequently, MOH encourages the public to wear face masks if experiencing symptoms during visitation activities to protect family, neighbors, and friends from COVID-19 infection.
