NEW Covid-19 cases reported last week dropped by 6.4% (5,149 cases to 4,817 cases) compared to the number of cases reported the previous week, the Health Ministry said.

Health Minister Dr Zaliha Mustafa said to date, 70.97% (18,319) of Covid-19 cases were variants of concern and variants of interest (VOIs) of the Omicron strain.

“The Omicron variant remains the only variant in circulation.

“A type of subvariant that belongs to the Omicron variant family is Arcturus.

“The World Health Organization (WHO) classified this subvariant as a VOI on April 17,” Zaliha said in a statement.

She said this means the results of WHO’s Virus Evolution Technical Expert Group’s risk assessment found Arcturus is a subvariant that requires attention.

“But is not placed in the variant-under-monitoring class. As of April 2, 2023, this subvariant has been detected in at least 31 countries around the world, including Malaysia.

“In Malaysia, 12 cases of (Arcturus) were reported and all of them are mild and stable.”

Dr Zaliha said six Arcturus cases were detected in Sarawak, four in Selangor, and two in Kuala Lumpur.

“A global-level risk assessment reports the likelihood of infection and the severity of cases caused by (Arcturus) is lower than other previously reported variants or subvariants.

“Although Malaysia identified the variant in March 2023, infections are still under control and do not burden health services.”

She said those with symptoms should follow the Health Ministry’s procedure.

“If (infected), self-isolate immediately for the prescribed period. Those at high risk such as vulnerable groups, the elderly, and children are encouraged to wear face masks when in crowded areas.

“Those who have not received the primary dose of the vaccine and the booster dose are advised to register immediately for vaccination to maintain their immunity statuses and prevent infection, including by new variants,” Dr Zaliha said. – April 24, 2023.