THE standard operating procedure (SOP) put in place to lessen the spread of the Delta and Omicron variants in Malaysia is sufficient, health experts said.

They said as long as people follow the set guidelines, they can keep themselves and those around them safe.

Those who will be visiting family and friends or travelling during the upcoming New Year celebrations are recommended to take a Covid-19 PCR test in advance, they added.

Dr Chee Hui Yee told The Malaysian Insight that unlike when Malaysia was struggling with the Delta variant, the country is now sufficiently prepared to face Omicron.

“Inbound travellers are required to take a PCR test, which will then be sent for genome sequencing to determine whether they carry the Omicron variant,” said the Universiti Putra Malaysia virologist.

“The government is handling Omicron cases carefully and actively tracking the cases, unlike when Delta was discovered and measures were lax.”

She advised those ushering in the new year to stay put in one place, while those returning to hometowns should take a PCR test as it is more accurate.

“If you are visiting elderly family members, take a PCR test and self-isolate. Do not take a test and go out celebrating as you may bring the virus back home.”

She said people should look out for not only the Omicron variant, but also Delta.

“Although Delta’s symptoms are mild, its transmission rate is fast. If most of the community is infected, it may increase the hospitalisation rate and put a strain on the healthcare system.”

Chee also reminded those doing house visits to observe SOP and “wear a mask even when with just family and friends”.

The Health Ministry has detected another 49 Omicron cases as of Saturday, bringing the total number of such cases to 62.

Of the 62 cases, 61 are imported, while one – detected in Sarawak – involves a patient with no recent travel history.

Dr Moy Foong Ming said Malaysia has benefitted from sticking to SOP, unlike other countries that are only now implementing them.

“The United Kingdom did not have a mask mandate. It decided to have one only in September,” said the Universiti Malaya Social and Preventive Medicine Department professor.

“Cold weather during winter also means that there is no air circulation, and this increases the risk of infection.”

In Kuala Lumpur, most people are still cautious and wear masks, she added.

“As long as set guidelines are observed, visiting family during the New Year is not a problem.

“Our daily cases have also been trending below 5,000 daily and we should maintain it at this.”

She also recommends people take a Covid-19 test before returning to hometowns, adding that if they test negative but are symptomatic, it is better to not travel.

“You may have just been infected and the viral load is not high enough to return a positive result. So, it is best to stay put if you exhibit symptoms.”

Meanwhile, former deputy health minister Dr Lee Boon Chye is of the opinion that people should avoid New Year gatherings.

“Omicron’s infection rate is definitely higher than Delta, and its fatality rate and severe illness may not be lower than Delta’s. It is also unclear whether Omicron can be stopped by existing vaccines.

“Unless a large percentage of the population have received their boosters and we learn more about Omicron, it is best to not gather during the New Year.

“Our border control is also not strict enough; it is hard to control those travelling in by sea and land. We do not even know whether there is a community transmission.”

Lee said even if everyone receives their boosters, it will take at least three months before any severe illness and the Omicron mortality rate can be drastically reduced. – December 28, 2021.