Native Chief Who Attended Aqiqah Course Triggers New Cluster

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-NSTP File PixKOTA KINABALU: A native chief has emerged as the index case of a new Covid-19 cluster dubbed Meruntum in Putatan.
The index case tested positive after undergoing symptomatic screening at a private hospital on April 8.
The cluster recorded two new cases today, with each case being registered in in Putatan and Penampang, bringing the cumulative cases of the cluster to eight.
Based on patient's movement, Sabah Covid-19 spokesperson Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun said the index case attended an 'aqiqah' ceremony at Kampung Meruntum Fasa III from March 27-28.
The index case had also attended a course at the Putatan District Council from March 31-April 1.
"Of the 71 close contacts who have been screened until April 9, eight people are confirmed to have been infected with Covid-19. The results for others are still pending," he said.
Masidi also noted that the Meruntum cluster was linked to one case (second generation) reported outside the Penampang district.
The two new cases under this cluster are among 127 new infections registered in Sabah, today.
One death was reported in Lahad Datu, while 77 patients recovered and had been discharged from hospitals.
Tawau recorded the highest cases (81) followed by Lahad Datu (13), and Tuaran (8).
Other districts recording new Covid-19 cases are Kota Kinabalu (5); Nabawan (5); Sandakan (4); Penampang (4); Semporna (3); Putatan (2); Papar (1); and Kota Belud (1).
The spike in cases also saw eight localities in Tawau being placed under enhanced movement control order (EMCO) starting tomorrow.
The localities are Raman Sri Bukit Tawau; Taman Cahaya; Jalan Tengku Osman; Kuarters Bomba Tawau; Bandar Sri Indah; Jalan Mesra; Kampung Titingan; and Taman Golden Hill. - NST

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