HEALTH experts have dismissed fears that allowing people who are Covid-19 positive to vote in the general election (GE) will lead to a sharp spike in infections.

They said the risk could be minimised if voters observed the standard operating procedure (SOP) and wore a mask.

Health director-general Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah had said that people who are infected but not in critical condition would be allowed to vote.

The announcement, coupled with news of a surge in virus cases in neighbouring Singapore, caused by a new Covid-19 sub-variant, has fuelled fears of outbreaks.

Universiti Putra Malaysia virologist Dr Chee Hui Yee said separating infected voters from others at the polling centre will lower the risk.

The biggest worry for health authorities is getting the infected to the polling centres, he said.

“Do they drive there or are they taking public transport?

Chee said health authorities need to collect information from the Covid-19 positive voters before they go to the polls.

She said the infected voter should be encouraged to walk, cycle or use the motorcycle to get to the polling centre if it is close to their home.

“Travelling alone to the polling centre is one way to reduce the risk of spreading the virus.

Dr Moy Foong Ming, a professor of social and preventive medicine at Universiti Malaya, is also concerned about the logistics.

“If the person is driving, it’s fine, but if he has to share the car with family members, then it would be wise for everyone to wear a mask and roll down the windows for better air circulation.

Moy said voters in general should take precautions by wearing a mask and using alcohol-based hand sanitisers.

She said asymptomatic voters are another concern.

“That’s why its important for them to observe the SOP and personal hygiene.”

Former deputy health minister Dr Lee Boon Chye said although there is a possibility of an increase in the number of infections after the election, it would not be a sharp spike if the appropriate SOPs are introduced.

The best way to protect oneself, he said, is to wear a mask.

“The mask is great protection and as long as you wear it, you don’t have to worry about anything else.”

Yesterday, Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin said his ministry had suggested a separate lane and voting stations for the infected to cast their votes.

He said it is up to the EC to implement the rules. – October 16, 2022.