It may look like we've gotten the pandemic under control, but in reality, it's really not.

In fact, the numbers look a little bit worrying at the moment.

The rate of COVID-19 infectivity has increased from 0.72 to two weeks ago to 1.72 this week, the Health Ministry has announced.

"MOH would like to inform that the value of Rt or R naught (R0) has increased to 1.72 in Malaysia," it said in a press release.



According to Healthline, (R0) is a mathematical term that shows how many people can contract a contagious disease (COVID-19, in this case) from a person who is already infected.

This would mean that one person in Malaysia who has the virus can spread it to an average of 1.72 people.

We're probably the cause

It's on us, too
Health Director General Tan Sri Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah, in the statement, indicated that the increase is possibly caused by the lack of compliance to the SOPs set by the authorities.

"Based on the assessment conducted by the MOH, there is also an increase in the movement of people in Malaysia.

"The public is likely becoming more complacent and disregard the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) set. The advisories given are taken lightly, and this also includes frontliners among HCWs as well as personnel from other agencies," he said.

He reminded healthcare workers that they are at a high-risk of contracting COVID-19 while at healthcare facilities and can spread the virus to the community.

Healthcare workers have to take care of themselves too
"Therefore, one hundred percent compliance with management guidelines and procedures while on duty and also while not on duty is very important.

"Non-compliance will result in the transmission of COVID-19 infection. For example, today, one HCW in the Sungai Cluster was found to have infected seven family members," Dr Noor Hisham said.

Continue to follow SOPs


The health ministry adviced the public to continue following recommendations and health advices that has been shared by the relevant authorities.

It reminded people to avoid the 3Cs - Avoid Crowded places; Confined spaces; and Close conversations; practice the 5Ws - Wash hands frequently with water and soap; Wear facemasks in public area or if symptomatic; Warn self and others for the following, in line with MOH’s advisories.

Let's not get complacent, guys. We've come this far together. Let's not waste all the efforts now.