By Aisyah Azzahra Suhiri
KUCHING: It was reported a while back that Deputy Chief Minister Tan Sri Datuk Amar Dr James Jemut Masing discouraged asymptomatic Covid-19 patients from undergoing Covid-19 swab tests.
He pointed out that since most of the people have been vaccinated, the severity of the symptoms of those who tested positive for the virus had significantly decreased.
He added that 99 percent of Sarawak’s daily Covid-19 cases comprised patients in Categories 1 and 2, meaning those with mild or no symptoms.
He also observed that Sarawak was now getting into the endemic stage of the pandemic as the majority of people already got vaccinated.
While some people agreed to Masing’s proposal, others feel that it is better for asymptomatic persons to undergo swab tests to find out the actual condition of their health as well as to ensure the safety of everyone around them.
Amir Zikry Zamri, Waiter
It’s best for asymptomatic patients to go for swab tests. It is better to be safe than sorry these days considering the high number of daily cases in Sarawak.
Sharifah Hayatun Nufus Wan Morsidi, Clerk
I don’t agree that swab tests should be done on symptomatic individuals only. It is true that most cases are in Categories 1 and 2 but it does not mean that those who are asymptomatic cannot transmit the virus to other people.
Faizurrafiq Saifulyazan, Archiver
It is quite risky not to swab asymptomatic people because they too can carry and spread the virus. They have the power to infect others, especially those who are vulnerable to the virus — like the elderly.
Satia Sabu, Housewife
I think that it’s better not to let our guard down when it comes to Covid-19. Symptoms or no symptoms, the safest way to protect everyone is to go for the swab tests to keep our current health conditions in check.
Jonathan Mengga Johnson, Student
I support the deputy chief minister’s statement. It is best for asymptomatic patients to undergo self-quarantine instead of going for swab tests to prioritise those who have symptoms.
Deborah Amit, Engineer
Asymptomatic patients are mostly carriers and it is very dangerous. If we are to break this never-ending Covid-19 chain, it is important to do swab tests on asymptomatic patients as well to be safe.
