The Health Minister said the XFG variant accounted for 8.2% of the 43,087 cumulative cases reported in the 35th epidemiology week (ME 35/2025).health

He said the new variant was detected by the Health Ministry through genomic surveillance (to track the spread of variants).

“The latest genomic surveillance data shows that 34% of the reported cases are of the NB.1.8.1 variant, followed by JN.1 (18.1%), XEC (13.3%), XFG (8.2%) and others (21.0%),” he said in a post on his X (formerly known as Twitter) account on Friday (Sept 19).

He pointed out that the number of Covid-19 cases recorded in ME 35/2025 saw a 49.5% drop compared to the number of cases reported in the same period last year, which was 85,297 cases.

He said one death has been reported in ME 35/2025 – a 91-year-old bedridden person – bringing the accumulative death this year to three.

On June 25, the World Health Organisation had designated the XFG variant as a “variant under monitoring” due to its high transmissibility and increased ability to evade immunity.

Dzulkefly also reminded the public to continue preventive measures such as frequent handwashing, wearing face masks when symptomatic or in crowded areas, and getting vaccinated especially those in high-risk groups.

Between Feb 17 and May 18 this year, a total of 8,246 individuals were vaccinated, including 1,711 with comorbidities or weakened immune systems and 125 healthcare workers.

In a written response to theSun, the ministry said while Malaysia is no longer pushing mass vaccinations, efforts are still being directed toward protecting vulnerable groups from severe Covid-19 infections.

“Efforts remain active, as shown by recent weekly data where over 8,000 individuals, including many from high-risk categories, received vaccinations,” the ministry stated.

“This ensures ongoing safeguarding of those most susceptible in the community.”

It also clarified that there are no plans to roll out a new booster dose but stressed that Covid-19 vaccines are still available and recommended for high-risk individuals.

The Health Ministry also said the Crisis Preparedness and Response Centre monitors media and public reports of potential outbreaks and verifies them before including them in official data.

“Risk communication campaigns via MySejahtera and social media platforms are ongoing, aimed at countering misinformation and keeping the public informed about new developments,“ it added.

Neighbouring countries such as Thailand and Singapore have recently seen a spike in Covid-19 cases, driven by the emergence of more infectious subvariants linked to the Omicron strain.

Between May 25 and 30, Thailand reported 65,880 new infections and three fatalities. In Singapore, estimated cases rose to 14,200 between April 27 and May 3, up from 11,100 the previous week, with 133 individuals requiring hospitalisation.

In Malaysia, Malacca saw a notable rise in infections, with a 20% increase in cases during Epidemiological Week 23 (June 1–7), recording 93 new infections.

Amid these rising cases, theSun spoke to Malaysian Medical Association president Datuk Dr Kalwinder Singh Khaira, who expressed concern over a shortage of healthcare personnel, warning that it could affect the quality and timeliness of patient care.

“Covid-19 still poses a serious risk, especially among the vulnerable. We must stay vigilant,” he said.

“We are confident that the Health Ministry and its agencies are taking appropriate steps to respond swiftly if cases rise again.”

On May 29, Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad reported a 72% surge in Covid-19 cases during Epidemiological Week 21 (May 18–24), with 1,971 infections recorded – up from 1,145 the previous week.

“The Health Ministry continues to enhance Covid-19 surveillance to ensure early detection and rapid response to any increase in cases,” he stated in a post on X.

In a follow-up update on June 4, Dzulkefly revealed that the JN.1 subvariant is currently the most prevalent strain in Malaysia, accounting for 17% of detected cases.

Other notable variants include XEC (7.9%), KP.3 (5.2%), and both KP.3.1.1 and LB.1 at 3.2% each.

While the World Health Organisation has assessed the global risk from JN.1 as low, Dzulkefly cautioned that its high transmissibility could still lead to a rise in cases, particularly during colder seasons or in populations with low immunity.

The Health Ministry consistently advises high-risk groups to stay updated with their vaccinations to reduce the risk of severe illness. – Amirul
Source: TheSun

Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono and Thai Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin signed the agreement. The deal aims to boost both countries’ capacity to handle global health threats and improve coordination during future pandemics.

Related: Cambodian Health Ministry warns of rising Covid-19 subvariant JN.1 cases 

The agreement comes as Thailand faces a spike in Covid-19 infections. Between May 11 and 15, health officials reported 14,751 new cases and one death. Since the start of the year, Thailand has recorded over 84,000 infections and 24 deaths. Officials attribute the rise to seasonal factors and increased social interaction during holidays and the school term.

Related: Exco: Covid-19 cases in Selangor under control 

The Department of Disease Control identified the highest infection rates among children under five, followed by adults in their 30s and 20s. The one reported death involved a person over 60. With the rainy season and school openings underway, Thai authorities remain on alert for further spread.

She said according to the latest update from the Selangor State Health Department (JKNS), as of Epidemiological Week 19 (ME19) this year, Selangor recorded a cumulative 3,807 Covid-19 cases this year — a significant decrease from 14,542 cases in ME19 2024.

“The weekly trend has been downwards since week 12, with weekly reported cases consistently remaining below 100 cases.

“This proves that our continued efforts and the people’s adherence to preventive measures remain effective, even as several neighbouring countries are experiencing a resurgence in Covid-19 infections,” she said in a media statement today.

Yesterday, Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said the government is closely monitoring the Covid-19 situation both domestically and abroad, in light of rising cases in Thailand and Singapore.

Jamaliah also expressed appreciation to front-line healthcare workers both public and private, as well as the people of Selangor, for their commitment to curbing the spread of the virus.

While the situation is stable, she urged the public, especially high-risk groups such as senior citizens and people with chronic illnesses, to remain vigilant, saying those showing Covid-19 symptoms must seek medical attention immediately.

She said the state government and the JKNS will continue to monitor the situation closely and ensure the public healthcare system remains on high alert.

As of May 10, Malaysia had reported a total of 11,727 Covid-19 cases nationwide from ME1 to ME19, with the highest figures recorded early in the year, showed data from the Health Ministry’s Disease Control Division.

Although JN.1 does not cause more severe illness than earlier Omicron strains, it spreads faster and bypasses immunity more effectively, thanks to spike protein mutations. Symptoms remain similar to other variants, including fever, dry cough, sore throat, fatigue, runny nose, and vomiting. Recovery typically takes a few days to a few weeks with proper care.

Related: Malaysia closes the book on Covid-19 tomorrow 

Sporadic JN.1 cases continue to surface in Cambodia. With the rainy season approaching—a period linked to increased respiratory infections—the Ministry urges the public to maintain strict hygiene and preventive measures. This includes frequent handwashing with soap or sanitizer, wearing masks in crowded places, covering coughs and sneezes properly, safely discarding tissues, avoiding public spitting, and keeping distance from those showing flu-like symptoms.

Related: Is Covid-19 causing skin diseases? 

Vulnerable individuals, including the elderly, pregnant women, those with chronic conditions, and people with weakened immune systems, are advised to follow health guidelines closely.

The Ministry also stresses that COVID-19 vaccination remains key to boosting immunity and preventing future outbreaks.

The Health Ministry gazetted the revocation under P.U. (A) 138/2025, published yesterday, that effectively cancels the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases (Declaration of Infected Local Areas) (Extension of Operation) (No. 2) Order 2024.

The original declaration had empowered authorities to maintain pandemic-era restrictions in the country.

Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad signed the revocation order on April 24.

Malaysia transitioned to the endemic phase of Covid-19 on April 1, 2022, when it relaxed nearly all restrictions imposed at the start of the pandemic.

Covid-19 first arrived in Malaysia in January 2020 and led to multiple nationwide lockdowns and movement control orders.

The country recorded over five million confirmed cases and more than 37,000 deaths by the time emergency measures began easing in 2022.

Globally, the pandemic claimed over seven million lives and severely disrupted economies, health systems and borders for more than three years.

This effort kicked off back in December 2021, when the COVID-19 pandemic was still a global emergency. Countries came together to form the Intergovernmental Negotiating Body (INB), tasked with hammering out a formal international agreement to strengthen global preparedness and response to pandemics.

The negotiation process included 13 rounds of formal talks—many of them extended—plus dozens of informal discussions. Now, the INB has a full proposal ready. If adopted, it would create a new framework for how nations collaborate on everything from sharing virus samples to coordinating medical supply chains.

Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO’s Director-General, said that despite global political tensions, countries were able to find common ground. He called the agreement a major step toward making the world safer and praised the Member States and their negotiators for sticking with the process.

The agreement lays out several priorities: sharing pathogens and benefits more fairly, expanding research and manufacturing across regions, speeding up technology transfers, training health workforces, and creating systems for financing and logistics during emergencies. It also emphasizes each country’s right to manage its own public health policies, clearly stating that the WHO won’t have the power to force national actions like lockdowns or vaccine mandates.

INB Co-Chair Precious Matsoso called the result a win for equity, saying the tough talks were driven by a shared understanding that pandemics don’t respect borders, and everyone is safer when countries work together. Ambassador Anne-Claire Amprou, also a Co-Chair, added that the agreement marks real progress toward a faster, fairer, and more unified global response.

The final decision now lies with the World Health Assembly, which starts on May 19. If approved, the agreement would be adopted under Article 19 of the WHO Constitution, giving it the force of international law.

Covid-19 2.0?

Several countries, including the US, UK, India, and several other Asian countries are reporting a rise in human metapneumovirus (hMPV) cases, with the US recently seeing a doubling of infections. This has sparked global concern, especially amid rising respiratory infections in China. However, experts reassure the public that HMPV is not a cause for alarm and emphasize that fears of lockdowns are unwarranted.

According to information from the Cleveland Clinic website, human metapneumovirus (HMPV) typically causes cold-like symptoms and primarily affects the upper respiratory tract. In some cases, it can lead to pneumonia, asthma flare-ups, or worsen COPD. Infections are more common in winter and early spring. Most people contract HMPV by age 5. Repeat infections can occur but are usually mild.

As of December 29, 2024, China has reported a typical seasonal increase in respiratory infections, including influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and hMPV. Influenza remains the leading cause of respiratory illness, except in children aged 5-14, where mycoplasma pneumoniae is more prevalent. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), SARS-CoV-2 activity is low, although there has been a slight increase in severe Covid-19 cases.

The incidence of influenza-like illness (ILI) is rising in both northern and southern provinces, following seasonal patterns. While southern provinces report lower ILI levels compared to the past two years, northern provinces show similar trends to previous years.

Current rates of respiratory infections, including hMPV, are within expected seasonal ranges. Hospitals are not overwhelmed, and in fact, healthcare utilization is lower than last year, with no emergency responses triggered. Authorities have issued public health messages to encourage preventive measures and reduce the impact of these infections.

Malaysia: No evidence hMPV poses global threat

In 2024, the National Public Health Laboratory and ministry hospital laboratories reported 327 samples testing positive for hMPV, up from 225 in 2023. Despite this increase, experts say there is no need for panic.

Dr. Vinod Balasubramaniam, a molecular virologist and associate professor at Monash University, explained that hMPV lacks the high transmissibility and asymptomatic spread of Covid-19. While China is seeing seasonal spikes in hMPV, RSV, and influenza, he stated there is no evidence these pose a global pandemic threat.

Dr. Vinod said that hMPV and other respiratory viruses already circulate in Malaysia, and incoming tourists are unlikely to introduce new pathogens unless detected through surveillance. Unlike Sars-CoV-2, hMPV does not spread extensively through asymptomatic carriers, and its severity is generally manageable in healthy individuals.

He identified high-risk groups for severe hMPV infection, including infants under one year, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. Though hMPV typically causes mild to moderate illness, it can lead to severe conditions like bronchiolitis or pneumonia in vulnerable populations. Infections are most common in late winter and spring and spread through direct contact with respiratory secretions or contaminated surfaces.

To prevent infection, Dr. Vinod recommended regular handwashing, avoiding face-touching with unwashed hands, covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, cleaning frequently touched surfaces, and isolating when symptomatic. He also urged health authorities to educate the public on hMPV and ensure healthcare systems are prepared to manage increased respiratory infections with adequate resources and protocols.

hPMV on the rise but normal

The WHO reports that respiratory infections typically rise in the Northern Hemisphere during winter due to seasonal viruses like influenza, RSV, hMPV, and mycoplasma pneumoniae, which can strain healthcare systems.

Currently, ILIs and acute respiratory infections (ARIs) are above normal levels in some countries, following seasonal trends. Influenza activity is high in Europe, parts of Africa, Central America, the Caribbean, and Asia, with the dominant virus varying by region. This is typical for the season, unlike in 2020-2021 when influenza activity dropped during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Sars-CoV-2 incidence is low after a busy summer, according to surveillance and wastewater monitoring. RSV activity is declining in most of the Americas and Europe but rising in North America. Other respiratory viruses, like hMPV, are also increasing in some areas, in line with usual winter trends.

Philippines: hPMV not a new virus

The Department of Health (DOH) this week reported 284 cases of hMPV in 2024, comprising 5.8% of the 4,921 positive samples tested for respiratory viruses.
Despite the low incidence, the DOH assures the public that hPMV infections are being monitored as part of the country’s respiratory illness surveillance.

The data, from Jan. 1 to Dec. 21, 2024, includes 10 hMPV-positive cases out of 339 samples tested in December.

The DOH highlighted that HMPV is detected sporadically throughout the year, with no unusual patterns or clustering observed.
Stressing that it is not a new virus, DOH explained that HMPV, a respiratory virus discovered in 2001, typically causes mild upper respiratory symptoms such as cough, fever, and nasal congestion.
Severe cases, though rare, may lead to bronchitis or pneumonia, particularly among infants, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals.

Meanwhile, the agency also reported a decline in overall ILI cases, recording 179,227 in 2024—a 17 percent drop compared to 216,786 cases in 2023.

Other top causative agents of ILI include Rhinovirus, Enterovirus, and Influenza A.
The decline is attributed to improved health-seeking behaviors and better preparations by the healthcare sector.

ILI is often characterized by symptoms such as cough, colds, and fever, and can be caused by various respiratory viruses.

Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa emphasized the importance of preventive measures like proper nutrition, exercise, and hygiene to combat respiratory illnesses, especially during the cooler Northeast Monsoon season.

Indonesia: Be vigilant, follow supportive measures against infections

Indonesia’s Health Ministry reported no cases of hMPV and urged the public to stay vigilant and calm, emphasizing preventive measures. Ministry spokesperson Widyawati stressed the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, washing hands regularly, and wearing masks in public to reduce the risk of infectious diseases.

The ministry is closely monitoring the hMPV outbreak in China and other countries, increasing vigilance at entry points by screening international travelers with ILI symptoms. Widyawati explainedthat while hMPV poses little threat to healthy adults, it is more dangerous for children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems, including individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes, respiratory disorders, and heart disease.

Although no vaccine or specific treatment for hMPV exists, supportive measures such as rehydration, fever management, and adequate rest can relieve symptoms. The ministry advises anyone with respiratory symptoms to seek medical attention immediately and to stay informed through official updates.

By Dr. Joyce Pauline Joseph, Consultant Neurologist at Aurelius Hospital Nilai

The Covid-19 pandemic has reshaped human health on a global scale, extending far beyond its commonly acknowledged respiratory effects. This virus has shown its capacity to affect multiple bodily functions, leading to significant physiological changes. Its impact ranges from intricacies within the immune system to complexities in cardiovascular health, introducing unprecedented alterations in individuals’ physiological well-being.

But what are the correlations, if any, between Covid-19 and an increase in stroke incidences especially amongst the young? In light of the increasing number of cases of Covid-19 in Malaysia again, in this article, we attempt to investigate the links.

Related: Covid-19: are we out of the woods yet?

Traditionally, when we speak about strokes, it tends to be an “elderly persons” disease, a health concern prevalent amongst those aged 50 and above. However, over the past three years since the first outbreak of Covid-19 pandemic caused by the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, an intriguing and worrying connection has emerged between the virus and incidences of strokes in younger individuals.

Emergence of a concerning link with stroke

Covid-19 is indeed associated with a higher risk of stroke, a majority of them being ischemic strokes (caused by a blockage in an artery that supplies blood to the brain). A study by PubMed Central, a highly respected database from the National Institutes of Health, did suggest a connection between the high prevalence of vascular risk factors and concurrent elevation of proinflammatory and procoagulation biomarkers in this.

Related: New finding to prevent plaque buildup and heart attack/stroke

In the same study, it has been proposed that the virus that causes Covid-19 infects the cells that line the inside of the blood vessels and these infected cells release several pro-inflammatory factors that attract other immune cells to the affected area. In turn, this leads to damage to the lining cells, activating platelets and other factors involved in clotting. This chain of events eventually increases the risk of a blood clot that could potentially travel up to the brain and cause a stroke.

In essence, hypercoagulability and inflammatory response cause vascular complications, increasing the risk of strokes, regardless of age.

Stroke risk factors

Findings from another large-scale study conducted by BMJ, wholly owned by the British Medical Association (BMA), suggested that Covid-19 is a risk factor for deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, and bleeding. The risk of developing blood clots in the lungs and legs is significantly elevated for up to six months upon contracting Covid-19.

From data collected from the US Department of Veteran Affairs, which consisted of 153,760 individuals who contracted Covid-19, evidence suggested that after the initial 30 days of infection, individuals afflicted with Covid-19 displayed heightened susceptibilities and endured a year-long burden of newly emerging cardiovascular conditions. These encompassed a spectrum of disorders, ranging from cerebrovascular issues and dysrhythmias to inflammatory heart disease, ischemic heart disease, heart failure, thromboembolic disease, and assorted cardiac disorders.

Strikingly, these risks manifested consistently across various demographic factors, such as age, race, and gender, as well as other established cardiovascular risk factors like obesity, hypertension, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, and hyperlipidemia. Notably, even those without any pre-existing cardiovascular conditions prior to exposure to Covid-19 exhibited these risks, suggesting a propensity for these complications to manifest in individuals traditionally considered at low risk for cardiovascular diseases.

In summary, data and evidence gathered do point to a heightened risk of stroke brought about by Covid-19, regardless of age. Even though it remains an uncommon occurrence, it remains a risk especially for individuals pre-existing health conditions that are known to boost the risk of stroke.

Young ones with pre-existing health conditions may be at more risk

Young individuals who have pre-existing health conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, or obesity face an elevated risk of experiencing severe complications from Covid-19, including the potential for strokes. Effectively managing these underlying health conditions emerges as a critical measure in preventing adverse outcomes and improving the overall prognosis for those affected by the virus. Prioritising the control and treatment of these existing health issues not only supports overall well-being but also plays a pivotal role in mitigating the severity of Covid-19-related complications.

Focus on prevention

Maintaining vigilance and monitoring for symptoms associated with stroke, such as sudden weakness or numbness, difficulty speaking, or severe headache, is crucial for early detection and intervention. Seeking prompt medical attention can significantly improve outcomes in case of a stroke.

While the correlation between incidences of stroke, Covid-19 and how it affects younger individuals remains a subject of ongoing research and study, it remains crucial in recognising the potential risks and taking appropriate and proactive measures.

Risk mitigation strategies

Staying informed through reliable health sources, maintaining healthy lifestyle habits, proper diet, and consulting medical professionals play essential roles in reducing stroke risk.

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A report stated that the DOH is in collaboration with the WHO and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) to validate the authenticity of the reported breach. The primary focus remains on assessing the scope of potential data breaches and implementing necessary measures in response to any identified vulnerabilities.

The agency assured the public of its commitment to transparency, promising to disseminate further information as soon as it becomes available. Additionally, the DOH reiterated its dedication to safeguarding data privacy and underlined efforts to fortify the security protocols within its managed systems.
Given the recent surge in hacking incidents and data breaches, the DOH urged the public to exercise vigilance in securing their digital information. This advisory underscores the importance of proactive measures by individuals to protect their personal data from potential cyber threats.

As the investigation unfolds, the public’s cooperation and awareness play a pivotal role in collectively upholding data security measures. Heightened vigilance and adherence to recommended security practices will be instrumental in mitigating the risks associated with potential data breaches, ensuring the safety and confidentiality of critical healthcare information.

Source: Philippine News Agency

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