Conditional MCO: Health experts fear third wave of infections

PETALING JAYA (May 1): Some health experts are worried that the relaxation of the movement control order (MCO) from May 4 onwards “might lead to new waves of Covid-19 infections”, reported Free Malaysia Today (FMT).

“This could result in Malaysia lurching from this MCO to another one a few months later,” Azrul Mohd Khalib, the executive director of the Galen Centre for Health and Social Policy told FMT.

Azrul was also not happy about the “short time frame for preparation” for the new standard operating procedures (SOP) under the looser MCO.

He said it would have been better if the announcement had been for after May 12, when the latest phase of the MCO is supposed to end.

“That would have given at least a week for preparation.

“Lack of preparation will result in the unsuccessful implementation of the SOP, increased risks, frustration, conflict, public tension, and most importantly, increased infection and spread of the disease,” Azrul added.

Meanwhile, president of the Association of Doctors Johor, Dr Ng Kim Fong is also worried “about a potential third wave of Covid-19 cases”, reported FMT.

The cardiologist said “the MCO should have continued according to plan until May 12. The problem is, we need to do more testing”.

“Most healthcare workers are worried. However, this will be the new normal.

“People must continue to practise social distancing, wear masks and wash their hands regularly,” Ng explained.

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