KOTA KINABALU: Returning students and individuals who flouted home quarantine rules are among 10 new Covid-19 cases confirmed by the state Health Department (JKNS) yesterday, bringing the tally of infections in Sabah to 327.
The latest infections were detected based on seven samples taken at Kota Kinabalu and Tawau international entry points, and three samples taken at Sandakan airport.
JKNS director Datuk Dr Christina Rundi said all the new infections are imported cases and were recorded in Keningau (2), Lahad Datu (4), Semporna (3), and Tawau (1).
"Based on preliminary investigations, all cases were given Annex 14 Forms to undergo home quarantine, but a majority defied the order.
"The (new) infections are two students, a child, and those working in the Peninsula. The department is currently conducting investigations on close contacts," she said in a statement.
On May 10, Dr Rundi said 2,852 samples were tested, with 15 samples, including four repeated samples, returning positive.
Ten samples are new cases, while another sample is of a Sabahan who tested negative while being treated in the Peninsula.
The increase in cases has prompted various comments on social media – and Dr Rundi advised netizens against publishing personal details of the infected to prevent them from being stigmatised.
"In the move to combat this outbreak, there may be unpopular approaches which are sometimes seen as troublesome. However, such strategies need to be seen in the interest of all.
"JKNS would like to stress that the Health Declaration on Admission to Sabah form must be filled with correct details. If information is found incorrect or incomplete, action can be taken under the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988," she said.