TAWAU: The number of cases involving stomach ache, diarrhoea and vomiting in the district rose sharply to 162 as of 7.30pm on Monday (Sept 28), compared with 80 cases recorded the previous day.
Sri Tanjong assemblyman Justin Wong said the cases involved several areas, although most patients experienced only mild symptoms and recovered on their own within two days.
He said authorities had so far taken samples from patients and the environment for laboratory testing, while inspections were also being carried out at food premises, ice factories and related locations to identify the source of the outbreak.
He said the Director-General of Health was also expected to conduct a briefing in the near future to announce detailed developments in the investigation.
Following the increase in cases, Justin urged the public to remain vigilant and strengthen personal hygiene and food safety measures while awaiting the official findings of the Health Department’s investigation to prevent the situation from worsening.
He also reminded the public to deal with the current situation rationally and calmly, and not to make unfounded assumptions or speculation regarding the cases.
He said the public should remain calm throughout this period and obtain information from official announcements, while avoiding believing or spreading unverified news.
“Always practise good personal hygiene, including washing your hands frequently and ensuring that food is thoroughly cooked before consumption.
“Food should be stored properly in a clean environment and at an appropriate temperature, while drinking water should be boiled beforehand to ensure its safety,” he said.
At the same time, Justin advised members of the public to seek treatment promptly at clinics or hospitals and not delay getting medical examinations if they experience symptoms such as diarrhoea or vomiting.
He said those experiencing health symptoms were also advised not to prepare food for others to prevent the possible spread of infection.
He added that the latest developments regarding the cases would be communicated to the local community from time to time as soon as new information became available.
“If the Health Department’s investigation finds that this problem is caused by the water supply, I urge the Water Department and the Health Department to take immediate action to ensure that the situation does not become worse,” he said.
