COVID infection was declared a pandemic by the WHO and as of the end of 2020, there is still NO known cure for the disease.  Fortunately, most people recover and the mortality rate in Malaysia is less than 1% with the majority of deaths occurring in patients over the age of 50 years (accounting for over 85% of deaths).  Certain groups of people are at more risks and they include;  

• Older age group (65 years and above)
• Co-existing diseases such as diabetes, kidney disease, heart disease, asthma or other lung disease
• Cancer patients
• Transplant patients
• Obesity (with BMI > 30)
• Smokers

There are 5 clinical stages where a patient may progress

Most younger and fit patients usually recover by themselves without requiring much medical intervention.  They may be advised to self-quarantine at home to monitor their temperature and symptoms daily and to call the relevant hospital or authorities if their symptoms progress or get worse beyond category 3. 

Category	Patient’s condition
1	No Symptoms
2A	Symptoms such as sore throat or flu (without shortness of breath or fever), loss of taste (but still have appetite), loss of smell and experiencing diarrhoea, nausea or vomiting and fatigue or muscle aches (but can still do daily activities)
2B	Symptoms such as persistent fever for 2 days or more, breathing difficulty when doing activities, chest pain, loss of appetite, low level of consciousness, less urination within past 24 hours or worsening symptoms (cough, nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea)
3	Symptoms AND pneumonia
4	Symptoms WITH pneumonia requiring oxygen
5	Critically ill requiring ventilator

How to reduce your risk of infection

Although there is NO way to ensure zero risk of infection, here are some tips to help reduce your own risk

AVOID the 3Cs

• Crowded areas and try to limit going out
• Confined or closed spaces with poor ventilation
• Close conversations with people

Maintain the 3Ws

• Wear a mask
• Wash your hands regularly with soap and water
• Warn others to practice social distancing

Together we can fight COVID but we have to do our part to stop the spread

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If you think you may be suffering from any medical condition, you should seek immediate medical attention from your doctor or other professional healthcare providers. You should never delay seeking medical advice, disregard medical advice, or discontinue medical treatment because of information on this website.