TO curb the spread of the newly emerged Covid-19 variant XBBB1.16 or better known as Arcturus, the Health Ministry (MOH) is considering reintroducing the usage of masks in schools. 

Malay-language daily Berita Harian reported Health Minister Dr Zaliha Mustafa as saying she would meet Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek soon to discuss the matter.  

She said new guidelines and standard operating procedure (SOP) for pupils will be issued prior to the reopening of schools on May 2.  

“I will meet Fadhlina this week to discuss guidelines and why we need to control the spread of Covid-19 in schools, especially with the new Arcturus variant. 

“The SOP and control measures to curb the spread of the virus will be issued as a precautionary measure for all schools.

“This is important. If any student gets infected after the Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration and travels, it may easily lead to an outbreak at schools,” Zaliha was quoted as saying.

She said the ministry has detected six new cases of the new XBB1.16 variant in the Klang Valley, which brings the total number of infections to 12 so far.

She said four of these new cases were detected in Selangor, while two other cases were from Kuala Lumpur. Six earlier cases were detected in Sarawak. 

Zaliha said people infected with Arcturus, which is also a sub variant to Omicron, were found to only experience mild symptoms and they are reported to be stable.

She said while the MOH will suggest necessary measures to control the Covid spread in schools, the final decision lies with the Education Ministry. 

“Parents need not panic when it comes to the spread of this new variant. However, we highly encourage all parties, including students to continue wearing masks to curb any spread of infection. 

“If they experience symptoms of infection, they should wear a mask and maintain social distance as practiced before this while also seeking medical help,” she said. – April 26, 2023.