FIRST and foremost, I must congratulate the wonderful people of Sabah who came out to exercise their constitutional right to vote in the state elections on Saturday. Many near and far ensured that their vote counted: kudos and congratulations.

However, a bigger danger awaits us after this milestone in our country – the spread of Covid-19. The number of cases, especially in Sabah, is going up by the day. Here are a few concerns and solutions:

Get tested

I hope all those returning from Sabah ensure that they get a Covid-19 test. Please ensure that you are tested before you return to your daily lives. We hope that this will be done as sincerely as how you practised your constitutional right to vote.

If you test is negative, however, do not think that you are safe.

Remember that in some cases, there is a latent period before one falls into the asymptomatic phase of Covid-19. Ensure that, once you have taken the test, return home and self-quarantine for 14 days. If at all possible, get another test after a week to ensure that you do not have the virus. Remember that, although symptoms of cough, runny nose and upper respiratory tract symptoms of fast breathing might be present in some, many are asymptomatic.

Self-quarantine for 14 days

When returning from a crowded and high-risk area, it is a must to quarantine yourself. Do not wait for laws to be imposed or for requests to quarantine: do it yourself. Ensure that the spread of Covid-19 in Malaysia is contained and stay at home. Ask your employers if it at all possible to work from home, and explain that you have just returned from Sabah. Show proof of travel so that they know your situation is genuine. And, just because you are in quarantine does not mean you can ignore preventive measures. Wear a mask, disinfect materials, wash your hands, keep a physical distance from others and seek treatment if symptoms arise. Remember to inform healthcare professionals wherever you seek treatment about your recent travels so that they can take the necessary precautions. 

Work from home

Employers, you play a big role. If you know of staff that have recently travelled to Sabah, allow them to work from home or give them time away from the office. This will help you in the long run and reduce the chances of closure of your work premises in the event someone is unfortunately diagnosed with Covid-19 after returning from Sabah. If they work from home, ensure they have taken the tests upon their arrival and a week after. This will ensure that you are doing the best for your workers and customers. 

We all must remember that we cannot leave it to the Health Ministry and healthcare professionals alone to curb the spread of Covid-19. Everyone plays a part. Sabahans, congratulations once again for practising your constitutional rights. Now, we must all join in and do our part for Malaysia to contain Covid-19.  – September 27, 2020. 

* Dr Arvinder-Singh HS is a medical officer.

* This is the opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of The Malaysian Insight. Article may be edited for brevity and clarity.