THE number of reported Covid-19 cases has increased from 6,796 to 12,757 in one week, says health director-general Dr Radzi Abu Hassan.

In his update for the week ending Dec 9, he said the majority of the 12,757 cases exhibited mild symptoms and did not require hospitalisation.

“Although there had been a sharp rise in cases, which was in line with the global trend at the end of the year, the situation in Malaysia was under control and healthcare facilities were operating within their capabilities,” he said in the update.

Hospital admissions and occupancy for intensive care unit (ICU) beds each rose by 1.4% per 100,000 of the population compared with the preceding week.

Radzi also said the ministry was anticipating an increase in Covid-19 cases after the Christmas and New Year celebrations, as well as due to the school holidays which would start on Saturday.

“The ministry encourages the public to wear face masks if they display Covid-19 symptoms to protect their family, neighbours, and friends from being infected,” he added.

Radzi advised the elderly, those with a weak immune system and those with comorbidities to use Paxlovid if they display Covid-19 symptoms.

He said that despite the continuous emergence of new Covid-19 variants, the oral antiviral drug remained effective in reducing symptoms and preventing increased severity. – TMR / pic TMR FILE