No more home surveillance order for Covid-19 patients

PETALING JAYA: Covid-19 patients will no longer be issued a home surveillance order (HSO) certificate, based on the latest revision of the health ministry’s SOPs in dealing with the virus.

Health minister Dzulkefly Ahmad said those who test positive for the virus will be treated like patients of any other respiratory infections.

“However, these individuals can still potentially spread the Covid-19 virus. Therefore, it is encouraged that these Covid-19 positive individuals stay at home,” he said in a written parliamentary reply yesterday.

Dzulkefly said that if the Covid-19 patients must leave their homes, they are encouraged to avoid close interactions with others.

“If symptoms persist or worsen, they are advised to go to the nearest healthcare facility for evaluation and further treatment,” he said.

He said the issuance of medical certificates or hospital referrals, if necessary, will be based on the medical officer’s assessment of the patient’s condition.

“Those who are close contacts of Covid-19 positive cases are encouraged to monitor their health status and symptoms,” he said.

Dzulkefly was responding to Ahmad Yunus Hairi (PN- Kuala Langat), who asked about the health ministry’s precautionary measures given the rise in Covid-19 cases in Singapore recently.

Last month, Dzulkefly announced that the ministry would release details on the revised SOPs for Covid-19 soon.

Yesterday, he said Covid-19 patients must mask up, minimise social interactions and avoid being in crowded places.

“Individuals with respiratory symptoms are also encouraged to wear a face mask, especially in healthcare facilities, crowded areas, or places with poor ventilation,” he said.

Healthcare providers are encouraged to mask up when interacting with patients in healthcare facilities, in line with infection control and prevention practices.