SANDAKAN, Feb 6 — Two-thirds of the total COVID-19 infections in Sandakan are in categories one and two, said Duchess of Kent Hospital (HDOK) director Dr Francis Paul.

He said though Sandakan has the highest number of daily cases, most of the people who were infected have been vaccinated, so their condition was not serious.

“It is hoped that those who are infected will remain in categories one and two as this will not burden the hospital and health care providers who are also at risk of being infected,” he told reporters after visiting the COVID-19 Quarantine and Treatment Centre (PKRC) at Sandakan Sports Complex, here today.

Sandakan recorded the highest daily new cases in Sabah for three consecutive days with 1,100 active cases recorded as of yesterday.

Dr Francis also expressed concern over the increasing number of infections among children and adolescents aged between 11 and 20, especially those living in hostels.

“As most teenagers are still not vaccinated, the hospital would like to advise parents to bring in their children for vaccination,” he said.

Following the surge in COVID-19 cases in Sandakan, 71 beds have been provided at HDOK, Rafflesia Hall, Sandakan Health Ministry Training Institute (40 beds) and Sandakan Sports Complex Multipurpose Hall (100 beds)

He said if necessary, another 100 beds would be provided at the Sandakan Sports Complex PKRC and the hostel at the complex would be converted as another PKRC to accommodate up to 150 beds.

“We expect a sharp increase in cases in the next 14 days. The public is reminded to always adhere to standard operating procedures, wear a face mask, wash their hands and avoid crowded places,” he said.

Source: BERNAMA News Agency