COVID-19 Outbreak in Malaysia

Asita Elengoe

doi:10.24171/j.phrp.2020.11.3.08

Articles

Page Path

Review Article

COVID-19 Outbreak in Malaysia

Asita Elengoe^,*

Osong Public Health and Research Perspectives 2020;11(3):93-100.
Published online: May 31, 2020

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24171/j.phrp.2020.11.3.08

Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Lincoln University College, Selangor, Malaysia

*Corresponding author: Asita Elengoe, Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Lincoln University College, Selangor, Malaysia, Email: asitaelengoe@yahoo.com

• Received: April 17, 2020 • Revised: May 6, 2020 • Accepted: May 11, 2020

This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/).

65,535 Views
4,794 Download
119 Web of Science
110 Crossref
204 Scopus

prev next

Full Article

Download PDF

Abstract
Introduction
Conclusion
Acknowledgments
Article information
References

Abstract

In 2020 a significant threat to public health emerged. The novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) epidemic outbreak emerged in December 2019 from Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China and spread to the rest of the world. This disease was named COVID-19 by World Health Organization. To date (17^th April 2020) a total of 2,230,439 cases of COVID-19; 150,810 cases of deaths and 564,210 recovered cases have been reported worldwide. In this review the SARS-CoV-2 morphology, pathogenic mechanism, similarities and differences between SARS-CoV and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome and severe acute respiratory syndrome, transmission mode, diagnosis, treatment, and preventive measures were investigated. The outbreak of COVID-19 from a Malaysian perspective was explored and mental health care during the COVID-19 outbreak was explored. To date, there is no vaccine or no specific treatment for COVID-19. Therefore, preventive measures are very important to prevent and control the rapid spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Preparedness should be a priority for future pandemic outbreaks.
Keywords: COVID-19; Malaysia; SARS-CoV-2

Introduction

A continuous occurrence of an unknown acute respiratory tract infection was reported in Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China, since 12^th December 2019, originating from the Hunan South China Seafood Market [1]. On the 7^th January 2020, Chinese scientists isolated the unknown viral sample from an infected person and sequenced its genome using the next gene sequencing tool. They reported that the virus had 96.3% genetic similarity with a Yunnan bat coronavirus RaTG13 and 70% homology with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV) [2]. On the 12^th January 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) announced the cause of this epidemic outbreak was a novel coronavirus discovered in 2019 (2019-nCoV) or SARS-CoV-2 and named the disease coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) [3]. However, the answer to the origin of SARS-CoV-2 remains to be determined.

The SARS-CoV-2 spread rapidly to other countries including South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, Singapore, Japan, Italy, Iran, Spain, USA, UK and was classified by the WHO as a pandemic on 12^th March 2020 [3]. As of the 17^th April 2020, there are a total of 2,230,439 cases of COVID-19; 150,810 cases of deaths and 564,210 recovered cases have been reported throughout the world [4]. The USA has had the highest number of cases of COVID-19 (686,431) and number of deaths (35,578) [4]. There have been 58,179 USA patients who have recovered from COVID-19 [4]. On the 17^th April 2020, a total of 8,861 new cases and 961 new deaths were reported in USA [4]. The number of cases has increased exponentially in USA, Italy, Spain, UK, Turkey, and Russia. This article describes COVID-19 and its outbreak in Malaysia.

1. SARS-CoV-2

1.1. Morphology and pathogenic mechanism

The SARS-CoV-2 is a beta coronavirus, which is a large, spherical, enveloped, non-segmented positive-sense, single-stranded RNA virus genome of about 30 kb [5]. It consists of 4 main structural proteins which are spike glycoprotein (S), membrane (M), envelope (E) and nucleocapsid (N) proteins [6]. SARS-CoV-2 uses its spike to inhibit the activity of neutralizing antibodies. Neutralizing antibodies are mainly involved in preventing viral particles from interacting with the host cell to infect cells. S protein contains S1 and S2 domains and the interaction between the S1 domain of SARS-CoV-2 with a specific host cell receptor called Angiotensin Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE-2) promotes a conformational change in the S protein. The virus mediates membrane fusion with the host cell membrane via the S2 domain and enters the host cell (specifically alveolar epithelial cells) [7,8].

1.2. Similarities and differences between SARS-CoV, MERS-SARS and SARS-CoV-2

SARS-CoV-2 is different from SARS-CoV and MERS-SARS (Table 1) [3,9–13].

1.3. Transmission

SARS-CoV-2 spreads rapidly from person to person but it was initially hypothesized that, SARS-CoV-2 was propagated by animal to human via direct contact with an intermediary host. Consumption of infected, raw or semi-cooked meat may also lead to the transmission of the virus. COVID-19 is a zoonotic disease where an animal virus undergoes mutations that permit it to infect and replicate inside the human body where it spreads rapidly through the human population. The virus is transmitted by asymptomatic infected individuals and symptomatic individuals via oral fluid droplets, mainly airborne via coughing or sneezing [2,14,15].

1.4. Symptoms

COVID-19 symptoms are manifest usually as fevers, a dry cough and tiredness. Some infected individuals may have mild symptoms like headaches, muscle pains, runny nose, sore throat or diarrhea. Some COVID-19 patients may suffer from severe pneumonia, organ failure (e.g. kidney), acute respiratory tract infection and septic shock, which can lead to death [16]. However, there are some infected individuals who do not develop any symptoms and do not feel unwell. These people are called asymptomatic carriers. The people who are highly vulnerable to COVID-19 are the elderly, young children, pregnant ladies, and people with chronic diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, heart problems, kidney and liver diseases, in addition to immuno-compromised people including patients with cancer, HIV, auto-immune disorders, and smokers.

1.5. Treatment

To date, there is no vaccine or specific antiviral therapy confirmed by the WHO to be effective against COVID-19. However, there are a number of medicines which could potentially be repurposed to treat COVID-19 (Table 2) [14,17–20].

1.6. Preventive measures

Since there is no safe and effective medicine against COVID-19, the WHO has developed a strict guideline to adhere to during the pandemic. Standard precautions are very important to set out and adhere to in an effort to curb the spread of SARS-CoV-2 worldwide. Preventive measures such as regular hand washing with soap or sanitizer, avoiding handshaking, wearing masks and gloves, social distancing of 1–2 m apart, coughing into disposable tissues or into a flexed elbow and self-isolating if symptomatic, avoidance of gatherings and unnecessary travel to affected areas can suppress the spread of viral infection.

2. COVID-19 in Malaysia

As of the 17^th April 2020, there were 5,251 COVID-19 cases including 86 deaths and 2,967 cases of recovery reported by the Ministry of Health (MOH) in Malaysia [21]. Selangor, in Malaysia had recorded the highest number of confirmed COVID-19 cases (1,338) to date (17^th April 2020). The government announced 27 districts as red zones including Lembah Pantai (592), Hulu Langat (446), Petaling Jaya (366), Seremban (288), Kuching (255), and Kluang (221), because of the large cumulative number of positive cases detected in those areas [21].

On the 25^th January 2020, the first case of COVID-19 was detected in Malaysia and traced back to 3 Chinese nationals who previously had close contact with an infected person in Singapore [22,23]. They had travelled into Malaysia via Singapore on the 24^th January 2020. They were treated at Sungai Buloh Hospital, Selangor, Malaysia [22,23]. The MOH quickly devised standard guidelines for the management of COVID-19 and 34 hospitals and screening centers were specifically designated in each state of Malaysia [including Kuala Lumpur Hospital (Kuala Lumpur), Sungai Buloh Hospital (Selangor), Tuanku Jaafar Hospital (Negeri Sembilan), Sultanah Aminah Hospital (Johor Bahru), Miri Hospital (Sarawak), Tawau Hospital (Sabah) [21].

The first Malaysian was confirmed with COVID-19 on the 4^th February 2020. The 41-year old man had recently returned from Singapore when he started to develop a fever and a cough. He was quarantined at Sungai Buloh Hospital, Selangor [24]. On the same day, a 4-year-old Chinese national girl who had been isolated at Sultanah Maliha Hospital, Langkawi, since the 29^th January 2020, had recovered, been discharged and was allowed to return to China [25]. In Malaysia, this was the first patient who had recovered from COVID-19 since the outbreak began.

A 40-year old female Malaysian was reported positive for COVID-19 on the 6^th February 2020. She had no travel history to infected areas, however, she was the younger sister of the 41-year old man confirmed as positive with the virus on the 4^th February 2020. She was the first COVID-19 patient in Malaysia who contracted the virus via local transmission. She developed a fever and a sore throat on 1^st February 2020 and developed a cough the following day. She was isolated at Sultanah Bahiyah Hospital, Alor Setar, on the 3^rd February 2020 [26]. On 12^th March 2020, Malaysia reported its first sporadic case of COVID-19 where the infected person neither travelled to an affected area nor had contact with an infected person [21].

In March 2020, the number of reported COVID-19 cases grew relatively slowly until a religious event took place at Sri Petaling, Kuala Lumpur, which led to an exponential rise in cases [27]. A few weeks after the event, Malaysia recorded the highest number of positive cases of COVID-19 in South East Asia. The religious mass gathering was a 4-day event with 16,000 people participating, including 1,500 from outside Malaysia [27]. The spread of COVID-19 to other states of Malaysia and neighboring countries such as Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore, Philippines and Vietnam was propagated [28–31]. Sporadic cases of transmission within the local community were reported. A 53-year-old man who attended the religious event was confirmed as positive after returning Brunei. He was the first positive case of COVID-19 that was detected in Tutong, Brunei on 9^th March 2020. His symptoms began to develop on 7^th March 2020, and he was isolated at the National Isolation Centre in Tutong for treatment [32].

The number of positive cases increased beyond 553 cases on the 16^th March 2020, and the Prime Minister of Malaysia announced a Movement Control Order (MCO). Social distancing was to be in place for 14 days (18^th March to 31^st March 2020) to reduce the rapid spread of COVID-19 [33–35]. Since the 18^th March 2020, the government restricted people from travelling to other states or COVID-19 affected areas. Only 1 person from 1 family could leave the home and go out to buy essential goods.

On the 17^th March 2020, Malaysia confirmed 2 COVID-19 related deaths, a 60-year-old man from Kuching, Sarawak, who had a history of chronic disease, and a 34-year-old man from Johor Bahru, Johor, who participated at the religious gathering in Sri Petaling, Kuala Lumpur [36]. As the number of positive cases remained relatively high, on the 25^th March 2020, the MCO was extended a further from 14 days to the 14^th April 2020 [37].

Two more cluster groups were detected on 6^th April 2020, originating from a religious gathering at Kuching, Sarawak, which led to 83 COVID-19 confirmed cases, and a wedding at Bandar Baru Bangi, Selangor, which resulted in 88 positive cases [38,39]. A new subcluster of COVID-19 cases was identified in Rembau, by the MOH on 8^th April 2020. This subcluster was linked to the religious gathering at Sri Petaling, Kuala Lumpur. There were 27 people infected with SARS-CoV-2 virus [40].

As of the 10^th April 2020, there were a total of 4,346 COVID-19 cases reported by the MOH Malaysia, including 70 deaths and 1,830 recovered cases [21]. Furthermore, the WHO estimated that the number of COVID-19 cases in Malaysia would grow exponentially and peak in mid-April and so the government extended the MCO a further 14 days until 28^th April 2020 [41,42].

The government implemented an “Enhanced Movement Controlled Order (EMCO)” for specific areas in Kuala Lumpur including Kluang, Hulu Langat, Menara City One, Selangor Mansion, and Malayan Mansion effective until 28^th April 2020 [43]. Residents who were under the EMCO were not permitted to leave their houses (the government provided food to the affected residents), receive visitors, or enter COVID-19 affected areas. All the residents had to be screened for COVID-19 by health officials. The MOH identified a new cluster of COVID-19 cases in Sendayan, Negeri Sembilan, on the 14^th April 2020 where 39 people were identified as COVID-19 positive [44]. The MOH to date has reported 29 virus clusters throughout Malaysia. There were 69 COVID-19 positive cases reported by the MOH on 17^th April 2020 [21] and this was the first time that the number of cases was less than 100 since the 14^th March 2020.

2.1. Treatment of COVID-19 in Malaysia

A person was “suspected” of having COVID-19 based on the criteria below [21].

Has acute respiratory infection (either with difficulty in breathing, sore throat, or dry cough) with or without fever AND
Had a history of travel to or resided in a foreign country within 14 days before onset of disease OR
Had close contact with an infected person in the last 14 days before the onset of symptoms
Attended a gathering or event linked to a COVID-19 outbreak

A person was “confirmed” COVID-19 positive after performing laboratory tests.

COVID-19 patients can be diagnosed using diagnostic testing kits for the presence of the virus. Imaging techniques such as chest X-ray and pulmonary CT scans can be used to diagnose pneumonia in COVID-19 patients. There are 5 clinical stages of COVID-19 [21].

Stage 1. asymptomatic,
Stage 2. symptomatic and no pneumonia,
Stage 3. symptomatic and pneumonia,
Stage 4. symptomatic, pneumonia and supplemental oxygen required,
Stage 5. critically ill with multiorgan failure

Currently, there is no vaccine or specific treatment for COVID-19 that has been approved for use in humans. In Malaysia, hydroxychloroquine has been proposed as a drug to treat patients with COVID-19. Hydroxychloroquine inhibits endocytic pathways by elevating the pH of the endosomes to block the pH-dependent entry of the virus into the host cell [45]. The suggested treatment regime using hydroxychloroquine is

Stage 1. No treatment required
Stage 2. Hydroxychloroquine only
Stage 3/4. Hydroxychloroquine combined treatment with Lopinavir/Ritonavir
Stage 5. Hydroxychloroquine combined treatment with Lopinavir/Ritonavir, Ribavarin or Interferon Beta [21].

As of the 17^th April 2020, the government reported that out of the 5,251 COVID-19 positive cases in Malaysia, 56.5% recovered [21].

2.2. Preventive measures in Malaysia

✓ Wash hands frequently with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer
✓ Wear face mask and gloves
✓ Maintain physical distancing of 1metre
✓ Mass gatherings have been stopped
✓ Cover mouth and nose with a disposable tissue or flexed elbow when coughing or sneezing
✓ Avoid touching eyes, mouth, or nose
✓ Avoid handshaking
✓ Stay at home if immunocompromised or has comorbidities
✓ Avoid traveling to COVID-19 affected areas or countries
✓ Self-isolate at home for 14 days upon return from overseas if symptomatic
✓ Screen for COVID-19 after a person returns from a foreign country
✓ Avoid spreading false information regarding COVID-19

2.3. Movement Control Order (MCO) in Malaysia

In Malaysia, the Movement Control Order (MCO) was implemented on the 18^th March and was in place until the 28^th April to control the spread of COVID-19 nationwide. The government imposed 6 restrictions [46].

✓ People were prohibited from attending mass gatherings such as religious, sports, social, and cultural events. All places of worship and businesses were closed temporarily. However, people could buy essential goods at markets, supermarkets, grocery shops and convenience stores.
✓ People were required to undergo health screening for the detection of COVID-19 and self-isolate after returning from overseas.
✓ Foreign tourists and visitors were forbidden entry to Malaysia.
✓ Kindergartens, government, and private schools including daily schools, boarding schools, international schools, tahfiz centers, other primary, secondary and pre-university institutions were all closed.
✓ Public and higher education institutions and skill training institutes nationwide were closed.
✓ Government and private premises were closed except for essential services (water, electricity, energy, telecommunications, postal, transportation, irrigation, oil, gas, fuel, lubricants, broadcasting, finance, banking, health, pharmacy, fire, prison, port, airport, safety, defense, cleaning, retail and food supply).

2.4. Psychological stress during pandemic outbreak of COVID-19 in Malaysia

Anyone can be affected emotionally during an outbreak like COVID-19. Everyone reacts differently to critical scenarios. Fear, worry, and anxiety regarding COVID-19 can cause strong emotions such as stress and depression in a person. For example, a 62-year old patient under investigation for COVID-19, committed suicide in Serdang Hospital, Selangor, apparently due to depression [47,48]. The MOH has published well-described guidelines on “Mental Health and Psychosocial Support in COVID-19 [21].” They included the mental health and psychosocial support services for individuals under COVID-19 investigation and those health care workers/response workers involved. A concise flow chart of mental health and psychosocial support activities for COVID 19 were described in the guideline [21]. Some mental health care tips are listed below:

✓ Eat healthy food
✓ Drink lots of water
✓ Do regular physical exercise indoors
✓ Perform deep breathing exercises
✓ Practice yoga/meditation
✓ Listen to music
✓ Be artistic and expressive
✓ Read books
✓ Cook and bake (new recipes)
✓ Spend quality time with family members
✓ Talk with friends

Conclusion

This COVID-19 pandemic outbreak continues to have a strong impact on the economy, trade, and tourism industries. It has also affected sports activities such as the 2020 SUKMA Games, squash’s Asian Team Championship, and the 2020 Summer Olympics was postponed until 2021. To date, there is no specific treatment for COVID-19. Worldwide, many clinical trials are being carried out to find medicines and vaccines for COVID-19. At the same time, the experience gained from the global efforts in dealing with COVID-19, should propel countries globally to be prepared for disease control for novel disease outbreaks, epidemics and pandemics of the future.

Acknowledgements

Acknowledgments

I would like to thank the MOH in Malaysia and many professions including doctors, nurses, police officers, soldiers, garbage collectors, and cleaners who have been at the forefront in responding to the pandemic COVID-19 outbreak. I would like to thank specifically Dato Dr. Noor Hisham Abdullah who is the Director-General of Health Malaysia. Every day, Dato provides the necessary information and updates of COVID-19 to the country. Lastly, I greatly appreciate the COVID-19 cases whose information was used for this review.

Article information

Conflicts of Interest

The author has no conflict of interest to declare.

References

1. Guo Y, Cao Q, Hong Z, et al. The origin, transmission, and clinical therapies on coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak – An update on the status. Mil Med Res 2019;7(1). 11.
Article
PDF
2. Singhal T. A review of coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19). Indian J Pediatr 2020;87(4). 281−6.
Article
PubMed
PMC
PDF
3. World Health Organization [Internet]. Coronavirus disease (COVID-2019 situation reports 2020 Available from: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/situation-reports.
4. Coronavirus Outbreak [Internet]. COVID-19 CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC 2020 Available from: https://www.worldometers.info/coronavirus/.
5. Richman DD, Whitley RJ, Hayden FG. Clinical Virology. 4th ed. Washington (WA): ASM Press; 2016.
6. Fehr AR, Perlman S. Coronaviruses: An overview of their replication and pathogenesis. Coronaviruses. New York (NY): Humana Press; 2015. pp 1−23.
Article
PMC
7. Lim YX, Ng YL, Tam JP, et al. Human coronaviruses: A review of virus–host interactions. Diseases 2016;4(3). 26.
Article
PubMed
PMC
8. Ou X, Liu Y, Lei X, et al. Characterization of spike glycoprotein of SARS-CoV-2 on virus entry and its immune cross-reactivity with SARS-CoV. Nat Commun 2020;11(1). 1620.
Article
PubMed
PMC
PDF
9. Pickett BE, Sadat EL, Zhang Y, et al. ViPR: An open bioinformatics database and analysis resource for virology research. Nucleic Acids Res 2012;40(Database issue). D593−8.
Article
PubMed
10. Moreno A, Lelli D, de Sabato L, et al. Detection and full genome characterization of two beta CoV viruses related to Middle East respiratory syndrome from bats in Italy. Virol J 2017;14:239.
Article
PubMed
PMC
PDF
11. Xu J, Zhao S, Teng T, et al. Systematic comparison of two animal-to-human transmitted human coronaviruses: SARS-CoV-2 and SARS-CoV. Viruses 2020;12(2). 244.
Article
PubMed
PMC
12. Ceccarelli M, Berretta M, Rullo EV, et al. Differences and similarities between Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS)-CoronaVirus (CoV) and SARS-CoV-2. Would a rose by another name smell as sweet? Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci 2020;24(5). 2781−3.
PubMed
13. Song Z, Xu Y, Bao L, et al. From SARS to MERS, thrusting coronaviruses into the spotlight. Viruses 2019;11(1). 59.
Article
PubMed
PMC
14. Adhikari S, Meng S, Wu Y, et al. Epidemiology, causes, clinical manifestation and diagnosis, prevention, and control of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) during the early outbreak period: a scoping review. Infect Dis Poverty 2020;9(1). 29.
Article
PubMed
PMC
PDF
15. Yang P, Wang X. COVID-19: A new challenge for human beings. Cell Mol Immunol 2020;17(5). 555−7.
Article
PubMed
PMC
PDF
16. Huang C, Wang Y, Li X, et al. Clinical features of patients infected with 2019 novel coronavirus in Wuhan, China. Lancet 2020;395(10223). 497−506.
Article
PubMed
PMC
17. Lai CC, Liu YH, Wang CY, et al. Asymptomatic carrier state, acute respiratory disease, and pneumonia due to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2): Facts and myths. J Microbiol Immunol Infect 2020;[Epub ahead of print]. Epub 2020 Mar 4.
Article
18. Liu W, Morse JS, Lalonde T, et al. Learning from the past: possible urgent prevention and treatment options for severe acute respiratory infections caused by 2019-nCoV. Chembiochem 2020;21(5). 730−8.
Article
PubMed
PMC
PDF
19. Lai CC, Liu YH, Wang CY, et al. Drug treatment options for the 2019-new coronavirus (2019-nCoV). Biosci Trends 2020;14(1). 69−71.
Article
PubMed
20. Singh AK, Singh A, Shaikh A, et al. Chloroquine, and hydroxychloroquine in the treatment of COVID-19 with or without diabetes: a systematic search and a narrative review with a special reference to India and other developing countries. Diabetes Metab Syndr 2020;14(3). 241−6.
Article
PubMed
PMC
21. Covid-19 (Maklumat Terkini). Ministry of Health (Malaysia) [Internet] 2020 Available from: http://www.moh.gov.my/index.php/pages/view/2019-ncov-wuhan.
22. New Straits Times [Internet]. [Breaking] 3 coronavirus cases confirmed in Johor Baru. New Straits Times 2020 Jan 25 Available from: https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2020/01/559563/breaking-3-coronavirus-cases-confirmed-johor-baru.
23. First coronavirus cases in Malaysia: 3 Chinese nationals confirmed infected, quarantined in Sungai Buloh Hospital [Internet]. Borneopost 2020 Jan 25 Available from: https://www.theborneopost.com/2020/01/25/first-coronavirus-cases-in-malaysia-3-chinese-nationals-confirmed-infected-quarantined-in-sungai-buloh-hospital/.
24. First case of Malaysian positive for coronavirus [Internet]. Benama 2020 Feb 4 Available from: https://www.bernama.com/en/general/news_covid-19.php?id=1811373.
25. Chinese girl recovers from coronavirus, discharged from hospital [Internet] Benama; 2020 Feb 5 Available from: https://www.bernama.com/en/general/news.php?id=1811559.
26. Coronavirus: Malaysia records first local transmission [Internet] Benama; 2020 Feb 6 Available from: https://www.bernama.com/en/general/news.php?id=1811990.
27. Barker A. [Internet]. Coronavirus COVID-19 cases spiked across Asia after a mass gathering in Malaysia. This is how it caught the countries by surprise. ABC News 2020 Mar 19 Available from: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-03-19/coronavirus-spread-from-malaysian-event-to-multiple-countries/12066092.
28. Yasmin N. [Internet]. Thirteen Indonesians Contract Covid-19 at Malaysia’s Tabligh Islamic Gathering. Jakarta Globe 2020 Mar 20 Available from: https://jakartaglobe.id/news/thirteen-indonesians-contract-covid19-at-malaysias-tablighislamic-gathering.
29. Ferdinandh BC. [Internet]. 19 Filipino tablighs positive for COVID-19 quarantined in Malaysia. Minda News 2020 Mar 23 Available from: https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2020/03/19-filipino-tablighs-positive-for-covid-19-quarantined-in-malaysia/.
30. Le C. [Internet]. Another Malaysia returnee tests Covid-19 positive. VnExpress 2020 Mar 18 Available from: https://e.vnexpress.net/news/news/another-malaysia-returnee-tests-covid-19-positive-4070591.html.
31. Sukumaran T. [Internet]. How the coronavirus spread at Malaysia’s Tablighi Islamic gathering. South China Morning Post 2020 Mar 19 Available from: https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/health-environment/article/3076219/coronavirus-i-attended-tabligh-mass-islamic-prayer.
32. Latest news - Detection of the First Case of COVID-19 Infection [Internet] Brunei Ministry of Health; 2020 Available from: http://www.moh.gov.bn/SitePages/COVID-19.aspx.
33. Sukumaran T. [Internet]. Coronavirus: Malaysia in partial lockdown from March 18 to limit outbreak”. South China Morning Post 2020 Mar 16 Available from: https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/health-environment/article/3075456/coronavirus-malaysias-prime-minister-muhyiddin-yassin.
34. Bunyan J. [Internet]. PM: Malaysia under movement control order from Wed until March 31, all shops closed except for essential services. The Malay Mail 2020 Mar 16 Available from: https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2020/03/16/pm-malaysia-in-lockdown-from-wed-until-march-31-all-shops-closed-except-for/1847204.
35. Jun WS. [Intenret]. Movement control order not a lockdown, says former health minister. The Malay Mail 2020 Mar 17 Available from: https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2020/03/17/movement-control-order-not-a-lockdown-says-former-health-minister/1847232.
36. Ang VM. [Internet]. [BREAKING] Malaysia Records 2 Deaths Caused By COVID-19 Pandemic. Says.com 2020 Mar 17 Available from: https://says.com/my/news/breaking-60-year-old-pastor-in-kuching-is-first-covid-19-death-in-malaysia.
37. Tee K. [Intenret]. PM: Covid-19 shutdown extended to April 14. The Malay Mail 2020 Mar 25 Available from: https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2020/03/17/covid-19-120-new-cases-reported-in-malaysia-today-95-related-to-tabligh-gat/1847483.
38. Director-General of Health Malaysia [Internet]. KPK Press Statement 6 April 2020 – Current Situation of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) in Malaysia 2020 Apr 6 Available from: https://kpkesihatan.com/2020/04/06/kenyataan-akhbar-kpk-6-april-2020-situasi-semasa-jangkitan-penyakit-coronavirus-2019-covid-19-di-malaysia/[in Malay].
39. Yusof A. [Internet]. Malaysia identifies 2 new COVID-19 clusters resulting from mass gathering events. CNA 2020 Apr 6 Available from: https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/malaysia-coronavirus-new-covid-19-clusters-mass-gathering-12614212.
40. Kaos J Jr, Chung C. [Intenret]. New Covid-19 sub-cluster detected in Rembau, says Health DG. The Star 2020 Apr 6 Available from: https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/covid-19-malaysia-list-of-patients-recovered-discharged-12441998.
41. Ho Y. [Internet]. Malaysia Braces for Coronavirus Infections to Peak in Mid-April Bloomberg; 2020 Apr 3 Available from: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-04-03/malaysia-braces-for-coronavirus-infections-to-peak-in-mid-april.
42. Cases in Malaysia ‘likely to peak soon’ [Internet]. Reuters, The Straits Times 2020 Apr 3 Available from: https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/cases-in-malaysia-likely-to-peak-soon.
43. Azman F. [Internet]. COVID-19: Increase of total cases are not the ‘third wave’ - Health DG. Astro Awani 2020 Apr 3 Available from: http://www.astroawani.com/berita-malaysia/covid-19-peningkatan-jumlah-kes-bukan-gelombang-ketiga-kp-kesihatan-236670. [in Malay].
44. COVID-19: MOH detects new cluster in Sendayan [Internet] Bernama; 2020 Apr 14 Available from: https://www.bernama.com/en/general/news.php?id=1831905.
45. Mauthe M, Orhon I, Rocchi C, et al. Chloroquine inhibits autophagic flux by decreasing autophagosome–lysosome fusion. Autophagy 2018;14(8). 1435−55.
Article
PubMed
PMC
46. Covid-19: Movement Control Order imposed with only essential sectors operating [Internet] New Straits Times; 2020 Mar 16 Available from: https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2020/03/575177/covid-19-movement-control-order-imposed-only-essential-sectors-operating.
47. Abdullah R. [Internet]. Suspected Covid-19 patient commits suicide at Serdang Hospital. New Straits Times 2020 Mar 28 Available from: https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2020/03/578904/suspected-covid-19-patient-commits-suicide-serdang-hospital.
48. Zolkepli F. [Intenret]. Covid-19 P UI found dead in Serdang Hospital toilet, suicide suspected (updated). The Star 2020 Mar 28 Available from: https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2020/03/28/covid-19-pui-found-dead-in-serdang-hospital-toilet-suicide-suspected.

Table 1

The similarities and differences between the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV), the Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) and the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2).

Table 1
	SARS-CoV	MERS-SARS	SARS-CoV-2
Coronaviriniae Genera	b-coronavirus, lineage B	b-coronavirus, lineage C	b-coronavirus, lineage B
Virus type	RNA virus	RNA virus	RNA virus
Total length of DNA sequence	29,751	30,111	29,903
Discovery (y)	2003	2012	2019
Origin	Guangdong province, China	Arabian Peninsula	Hubei province, China
Total No. of cases worldwide (WHO report)	> 8,000	2,494	2,230,439 (Till 17^th April 2020)
Total No. of affected countries (WHO report)	26	27	210
Total number of death cases (WHO report)	916	858	150,837 (As of 17^th April 2020)
Mortality	>10%	34.4%	2.10%
Transmission mode	-Droplets (coughing and sneezing) -Close contact with an infected person	-Droplets (coughing and sneezing) -Close contact with an infected person	-Droplets (coughing and sneezing) -Close contact with an infected person or even asymptomatic ones
Transmission medium	Animal to human Human to human	Animal to human Human to human	Animal to human Human to human
Transmission region	Globally	Regionally	Globally
Cellular receptor	Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE 2)	Dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DDP4)	Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2)
Reservoir	Palm Civets and Bats	Bats and Camels	Bats
Receptor binding domain (RBD)	C-domain	C-domain	C-domain
IFN-γ inhibitor	Yes	Yes	Unknown
Viral replication efficiency	High	Higher	Higher
Pathogenicity	Higher	High	High
Clinical symptoms (WHO report)	Fever, malaise, myalgia, headache, diarrhea, and shivering (rigors)	Fever, cough, and shortness of breath	Fever, tiredness, and dry cough
Prevention	-Hand wash -Wear mask and gloves -Physical distancing	-Hand wash -Wear mask and glove -Physical distancing	-Hand wash -Wear mask and gloves -Physical distancing
Treatment	Glucocorticoid and interferon	No vaccine or specific treatment	No specific antiviral treatment

MERS-CoV = Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus; SARS-CoV = severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus; SARS-CoV-2 = severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2; WHO = World Health Organization.

Table 2

Drugs and their potential mechanisms for inhibiting SARS-CoV-2 infection in humans.

Table 2
Drugs	Mechanism
Remdesivir	Blocks viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase activity (inhibits RNA replication from the RNA template)
Chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine	Inhibits endocytosis by increasing the acidity in endosomes and prevents the entry of virus into the host cell.
Lopinavir and ritonavir	Inhibits RNA translation process
Lopinavir and ritonavir plus interferon-beta	Inhibits viral replication
Camostat mesylate	Inhibits enzymatic activity of type II transmembrane serine protease (TMPRSS2) which is important for infectious viral entry into the host cell
Darunavir	Blocks viral replication
BCR-ABL kinase inhibitor imatinib	Inhibits fusion of virions with the endosomal membrane
Arbidol	Inhibits membrane fusion of the viral envelope
Ribavarin	Inhibits viral RNA synthesis and mRNA capping
Ribavirin plus interferon-beta	Shuts down viral replication
Umifenovir	Inhibits fusion of virions with the endosomal membrane
Oseltamivir	Inhibits RNA translation process
Interferon-beta	Triggers the activation of innate antiviral immunity
Favipiravir	Blocks viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase activity (inhibits RNA replication from RNA template)
Monoclonal antibodies	Inhibits viral infection via binding to the virus

SARS-CoV-2 = severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2.

Figure & Data

References

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

Knowledge, attitude and practices associated with COVID-19 among undergraduate students from Malaysian public universities during the endemic phase: a cross-sectional study
Nur Umairah Mohd Hawary, Nor Malia Abd Warif, Ismarulyusda Ishak, Arimi Fitri Mat Ludin, Barathan Muttiah, Navindra Kumari P, Kumutha Malar Vellasamy, Vanitha Mariappan
BMC Public Health.2025;[Epub] CrossRef
An Alarming Sign: Acute Limb Ischemia in Patients With COVID-19
Mohd Faris B Mohd Aladin, Rosenelifaizur Ramely
Cureus.2025;[Epub] CrossRef
Exploring suicide chatter on Twitter during COVID-19 lockdown in Malaysia
Prishalini Rajagumar, Weng-Tink Chooi
Discover Public Health.2025;[Epub] CrossRef
COVID‐19 Vaccine Mandates in Southeast Asia: A Comparative Study of Policies in Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam
Nor Kamila Kamaruzaman, Hang Duong, Anna Lisa Ong‐Lim, Linh Phuong Tran, Ha Hai Vu, Pawinee Doungngern, Margie Danchin, Euzebiusz Jamrozik, Fiona M. Russell, Katie Attwell
World Medical & Health Policy.2025;[Epub] CrossRef
Calculating SIRD model parameters and Re-susceptibility in Malaysia, Pakistan, India and United Arab Emirates
Abdul Basit, Jasni Mohamad Zain, Hafiza Zoya Mojahid, Abdul Kadir Jumaat, Nur’Izzati Hamdan, Dilip Kumar Bagal
Communications in Nonlinear Science and Numerical .2025; 148: 108902. CrossRef
Advances in COVID-19 Therapeutics: Exploring the role of lectins and protease inhibitors
Lucas Gabriel Pita dos Santos, Gabriel da Silva Coutinho, Júlia Maria Rodrigues Guimarães, Marcelo Miranda da Silva, Alex Francisco da Silva, Pedro Paulo Marcelino Neto, Beto Cherles Coral Rodrigues, Welton Aaron de Almeida, Ardilles Juan Carlos Alves dos
Microbial Pathogenesis.2025; 205: 107687. CrossRef
COVID-19 and mental health: Retrospective analyses on the impact of global pandemic on psychiatric outpatient referrals in Northwest Peninsular Malaysia
Nurul Hidayah Noryatim, Muhammad Arif Fikri Mohamed Razif, Ruzita Jamaluddin
Archives of Mental Health.2025; 26(1): 88. CrossRef
A 22 month prospective assessment of neutralizing and IgG antibody levels against SARS-CoV-2 variants following homologous and heterologous BNT162b2 boosting
Aini Syahida Mat Yassim, Anis Atifah Mohd Hisham, Nik Nur Atiqah Nik Daud, Nur Diana Anuar, Ti-Myen Tan, Rapeah Suppian, Mat Jusoh Siti Asmaa, Amiratul Aifa Mohamad Asri, Maryam Azlan, Nur Suhaila Idris, Rosediani Muhamad, Mohd Nor Norazmi
Scientific Reports.2025;[Epub] CrossRef
Food insecurity in Malaysia: assessing the impact of movement control order during the COVID-19 pandemic
Mohammed Dauda Goni, Abdulqudus Bola Aroyehun, Shariza Abdul Razak, Wuyeh Drammeh, Muhammad Adamu Abbas
Nutrition & Food Science .2024; 54(7): 1202. CrossRef
A comparative study of anxiety and depression among healthcare workers and non-healthcare workers in Johor, Malaysia during the Covid-19 era
Jing Wen Wong, Jun Hui Tan, Ruth Elizabeth Abraham, Shareen Nisha Jauhar Ali, Si Yin Kok, Henry Chor Lip Tan, Jih Huei Tan, Han Ni
Medicine.2024; 103(12): e37415. CrossRef
Conducting A Physical Postgraduate Orthopaedic Exit Examination During COVID-19 Pandemic
Imma Isniza Ismail, Firdati Mohd Saaid, Siew Khei Liew, Norazian Kamisan, Mohd Hezery Harun, Nur Ayuni Khirul Ashar, Ashraf Hakim Ab Halim
Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences.2024; 20(1): 378. CrossRef
A Policy Examination of Covid-19 Impact on the Radiology Department Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs): The Malaysian Experience
Ahmad LuqmanulHakim Ahmad Sunawari, Aisyah Rahimi, Aminatul Saadiah Abdul Jamil, Shahrina Ismail, Azira Khalil
Malaysian Journal of Science Health & Technology.2024; 10(1): 88. CrossRef
Knowledge and attitude towards home quarantine instructions and associations with history of Covid-19 infection in Malaysia
Shea Jiun Choo, Chee Tao Chang, Huan-Keat Chan, Muhammad Radzi Abu Hassan, Muhammad Hazmi Hamdan, Ai Ting Cheong, Fatin Nadhirah Mat Noh, Nur Syahmina Uzma Mustafa
BMC Public Health.2024;[Epub] CrossRef
مواجهة جائحة كوفيد-19 في ماليزيا: الأثار والسياسات
ظاهر موسى, حسن الزبيدي
Kufa Journal of Arts.2024; 1(60): 44. CrossRef
Exploring Temporal and Spatial Trends in PM2.5 Concentrations in the Klang Valley, Malaysia: Insights for Air Quality Management
Siti Hasliza Ahmad Rusmili, Firdaus Mohamad Hamzah, Khairul Nizam Abdul Maulud, Mohd Talib Latif
Water, Air, & Soil Pollution.2024;[Epub] CrossRef
Effect of Olfactory Rehabilitation on the Recovery of Post-Coronavirus Disease Olfactory Dysfunction: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Alex Zxi Jian Ho, Nur Izzati B Ishak, Eugene Hung Chih Wong
Cureus.2024;[Epub] CrossRef
Comprehensive Clustering Analysis and Profiling of COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy and Related Factors across U.S. Counties: Insights for Future Pandemic Responses
Morteza Maleki, SeyedAli Ghahari
Healthcare.2024; 12(15): 1458. CrossRef
Development and Validation of a Malay Version Questionnaire to Evaluate Remote Health Monitoring of COVID-19 via Telehealth Applications: Navigating Telehealth Evolution
Kalaivane Kannadasan, Maznah Dahlui, Farizah Mohd Hairi, Amirah Azzeri
Cureus.2024;[Epub] CrossRef
Molecular detection of Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Borrelia theileri and Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus (SFTSV) in military working dogs and ticks collected from the Republic of Korea Army garrisons in Gangwon Province in 2021–2022
Minsung Kim, Sunghoon Cho, Gyeonggook Park, Jeongyun Kim, Misun Rieu, Kyung Tae Noh, Sangyun Ha, Quehn Park, Du Hwan Kim, Sangbeom Han, Geontae Jeon, Min Seong Park, Buddle Lee, Beonmman Ha, Ki Beom Park, Prabhakaran Vasantha‐Srinivasan, Yeon Soo Han, Cha
Entomological Research.2024;[Epub] CrossRef
Navigating Challenges in the Palm Oil Industry: Sime Darby Plantation’s Strategic Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic
Sashya Siddhartha
International Journal of Innovative Science and Re.2024; : 2222. CrossRef
Impact of lockdown on rheumatology outpatient care in the age of COVID-19
Benjamin Sachdev Manjit Singh, Seow Lin Chuah, Yaw Kiet Cheong, Sharifah Aishah Wan, Cheng Lay Teh
Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases.2023; 82(2): e39. CrossRef
Psychological Consequences of the Delay in the Silent Mentor Programme During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Perspectives From Family Members of Silent Mentors
Li Ping Wong, Sik Loo Tan, Haridah Alias, Thiam Eng Sia, Aik Saw
OMEGA - Journal of Death and Dying.2023; 86(4): 1176. CrossRef
Knowledge and practice toward basic life support among nurses working with SARS-CoV-2 patients in Jordanian hospitals
Ahmed Mohammad Al-smadi, Salam Bani Hani, Abedalmajeed Shajrawi, Ala Ashour, Marwa Halabi, Areej Mousa, Mustafa Mohammad Al Smadi
Working with Older People.2023; 27(4): 323. CrossRef
Estimating excess mortalities due to the COVID-19 pandemic in Malaysia between January 2020 and September 2021
Vivek Jason Jayaraj, Diane Woei-Quan Chong, Kim-Sui Wan, Noran Naqiah Hairi, Nirmala Bhoo-Pathy, Sanjay Rampal, Chiu-Wan Ng
Scientific Reports.2023;[Epub] CrossRef
Impact of COVID-19 on dietary intake, sleeping patterns and physical activity levels among Malaysian University students
Le Zhen Lee, Shi-Hui Cheng
International Journal of Adolescent Medicine and H.2023; 35(2): 209. CrossRef
Travel behaviour changes and risk perception during COVID-19: A case study of Malaysia
Surachai Airak, Nur Sabahiah Abdul Sukor, Noorhazlinda Abd Rahman
Transportation Research Interdisciplinary Perspect.2023; 18: 100784. CrossRef
COVID-19 Tracking Applications Acceptance among General Populace: An Overview in Malaysia
Mahmoud Al-shami, Rawad Abdulghafor, Abdulaziz Aborujilah, Abubakar Yagoub, Sherzod Turaev, Mohammed A. H. Ali
Sustainability.2023; 15(5): 4060. CrossRef
Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Healthcare Utilization among Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review
Norizzati Amsah, Zaleha Md Isa, Norfazilah Ahmad, Mohd Rizal Abdul Manaf
International Journal of Environmental Research an.2023; 20(5): 4577. CrossRef
The use of herbal and dietary supplements for COVID-19 prevention: A survey among the public in a Malaysian suburban town
Mohd Shahezwan Abd Wahab, Humaira’ Hamdi, Aida Azlina Ali, Mahmathi Karuppannan, Muhammad Harith Zulkifli, Sandra Maniam, Carolina Oi Lam Ung
Journal of Herbal Medicine.2023; 39: 100650. CrossRef
Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Antibiotic Utilisation in Malaysian Primary Care Clinics: An Interrupted Time Series Analysis
Audrey Huili Lim, Norazida Ab Rahman, Hazimah Hashim, Mardhiyah Kamal, Tineshwaran Velvanathan, Mary Chiew Fong Chok, Sheamini Sivasampu
Antibiotics.2023; 12(4): 659. CrossRef
The influence of COVID-19 pandemic and coping strategies on work operation of nonfarm household enterprises in Nigeria
Edith C. Obiefuna, Obed I. Ojonta, Jonathan E. Ogbuabor
Environment, Development and Sustainability.2023; 26(6): 13595. CrossRef
METER (Mental health emergency response) program: Findings of psychological impact status and factors associated with depression, anxiety and stress among healthcare workers in public hospital in Malaysia during the COVID-19 pandemic
Nor Asiah Muhamad, Natasha Subhas, Normi Mustapha, Norni Abdullah, Muhammad Arif Muhamad Rasat, Rimah Melati AB Ghani, Fatin Athira Tahir, Anne Nik Ismaliza Ishak, Vevehkanandar Sivasubramaniam, Alinazarine Hassan, William Wei Liang Goh, Kok Liang Teng, A
PLOS Global Public Health.2023; 3(4): e0001823. CrossRef
A review on post-COVID-19 impacts and opportunities of agri-food supply chain in Malaysia
Say Peng Tan, Lee Chuen Ng, Novel Lyndon, Zaki Aman, Parthiban Kannan, Khairuman Hashim, Han Meng Teo, Muhamad Syazlie Che Ibrahim
PeerJ.2023; 11: e15228. CrossRef
The Impact of Air Quality and Meteorology on COVID-19 Cases at Kuala Lumpur and Selangor, Malaysia and Prediction Using Machine Learning
Juliana Jalaludin, Wan Nurdiyana Wan Mansor, Nur Afizan Abidin, Nur Faseeha Suhaimi, How-Ran Chao
Atmosphere.2023; 14(6): 973. CrossRef
Experiences, coping strategies and perspectives of people in Malaysia during the COVID-19 pandemic
Phaik Kin Cheah, Mohamed Bella Jalloh, Phee-Kheng Cheah, Darlene Ongkili, Mira Leonie Schneiders, Anne Osterrieder, Pimnara Peerawaranun, Naomi Waithira, Alun Davies, Mavuto Mukaka, Phaik Yeong Cheah
BMC Public Health.2023;[Epub] CrossRef
Design process knowledge for crisis‐driven information systems solutions: Insights on building digital resilience from an action design research study
Yenni Tim, Thiam Kian Chiew, Hooi Min Lim, Chin Hai Teo, Chirk Jenn Ng
Information Systems Journal.2023; 33(6): 1343. CrossRef
Stress Among the Adult Population During COVID-19 Pandemic in Kedah, Malaysia: Association Between Sociodemographics and the Movement Control Order Period
Amalina Ismail, Tengku A Tengku Ismail, Muhammad F Mohamad Marzuki
Cureus.2023;[Epub] CrossRef
Adapting to the New Normal: The Teaching and Learning of Parasitology Course During Covid-19 Pandemic
Mehru Nisha, Intan Sufinaz Daud, Nurul Nadiah Ab Talib
Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences.2023; 19(s9): 177. CrossRef
Self-management of osteoarthritis while waiting for total knee arthroplasty during the COVID-19 pandemic among older Malaysians
Ahmad Nabil Khairi Mahdzir, Sumaiyah Mat, Shi Rui Seow, Rizal Abdul Rani, Muhammad Kamil Che Hasan, Nor Hamdan Mohamad Yahaya
World Journal of Clinical Cases.2023; 11(29): 7043. CrossRef
Development of Regression Models for COVID-19 Trends in Malaysia
Sofianita Mutalib, Siti Nurjeha Mohd Pungut, Aida Wati Zainan Abidin, Shamimi A Halim, Iskandar Shah Mohd Zawawi
WSEAS TRANSACTIONS ON INFORMATION SCIENCE AND APPL.2023; 20: 398. CrossRef
Public’s Willingness to Perform COVID-19 Self-Testing During the Transition to the Endemic Phase in Malaysia – A Population-Based Cross-Sectional Study
Diana-Leh-Ching Ng, Mohd Amirulikhmar Bin Jamalludin, Xhi-Yan Gan, Siew-Yoong Ng, Muhammad Zulhusni Bin Mohamad Rasidin, Beverlyn Felix, Nicholas Jagang, Woweham Sindeh, Mohd Abdul Hafiz Bin Mohd Abdul Rahim, Seng-Beng Tan, Chee-Shee Chai
Risk Management and Healthcare Policy.2023; Volume 16: 2505. CrossRef
Level of family support for university students during the COVID-19 pandemic: A case study among students at the University of Malaya, Malaysia
Asbah Razali, Rosya Izyanie Shamshudeen, Nur Azah Razali
Jurnal Sosiologi Dialektika.2023; 18(1): 92. CrossRef
The Influence of Positivity on the Meaning of Life among Malaysian Frontliners during the Global COVID-19 Pandemic
Syasyila Kalaivanan, L.Gin Lim, Zhooriyati Sehu Mohamad
The Malaysian Journal of Qualitative Research.2023;[Epub] CrossRef
The role of religion in mitigating the COVID-19 pandemic: the Malaysian multi-faith perspectives
Min Min Tan, Ahmad Farouk Musa, Tin Tin Su
Health Promotion International.2022;[Epub] CrossRef
Older people and responses to COVID‐19: A cross‐sectional study of prevention practices and vaccination intention
Li Ping Wong, Haridah Alias, Yi Ru Tan, Kit Mun Tan
International Journal of Older People Nursing.2022;[Epub] CrossRef
Property development during the COVID-19 pandemic: challenges and outlook in Malaysia
Zainab T. Jagun, Bemgba B. Nyakuma, Dzurllkanian Daud, Salfarina Samsudin
Environmental Science and Pollution Research.2022; 29(57): 85717. CrossRef
Vaccine hesitancy in East Malaysia (Sabah): A survey of the national COVID-19 immunisation programme
Adi Jafar, Mohammad Tahir Mapa, Nordin Sakke, Ramli Dollah, Eko Prayitno Joko, Colonius Atang, Syahruddin Awang Ahmad, Chong Vun Hung, Fionna Geogre
Geospatial Health.2022;[Epub] CrossRef
The impact of COVID-19 non-pharmaceutical interventions on the lived experiences of people living in Thailand, Malaysia, Italy and the United Kingdom: A cross-country qualitative study
Mira L. Schneiders, Bhensri Naemiratch, Phaik Kin Cheah, Giulia Cuman, Tassawan Poomchaichote, Supanat Ruangkajorn, Silvia Stoppa, Anne Osterrieder, Phee-Kheng Cheah, Darlene Ongkili, Wirichada Pan-ngum, Constance R. S. Mackworth-Young, Phaik Yeong Cheah,
PLOS ONE.2022; 17(1): e0262421. CrossRef
COVID-19 in Southeast Asia: current status and perspectives
Dinh-Toi Chu, Suong-Mai Vu Ngoc, Hue Vu Thi, Yen-Vy Nguyen Thi, Thuy-Tien Ho, Van-Thuan Hoang, Vijai Singh, Jaffar A. Al-Tawfiq
Bioengineered.2022; 13(2): 3797. CrossRef
One-year comparative assessment of retention of arch width increases between modified vacuum-formed and Hawley retainers:
Asma Ashari, Lew Xian, Alizae Marny Fadzlin Syed Mohamed, Rohaya Megat Abdul Wahab, Yeoh Chiew Kit, Malathi Deva Tata, Sindhu Sinnasamy, Elavarasi Kuppusamy
The Angle Orthodontist.2022; 92(2): 197. CrossRef
Cyanobacteria and Algae-Derived Bioactive Metabolites as Antiviral Agents: Evidence, Mode of Action, and Scope for Further Expansion; A Comprehensive Review in Light of the SARS-CoV-2 Outbreak
Biswajita Pradhan, Rabindra Nayak, Srimanta Patra, Prajna Paramita Bhuyan, Soumya Ranjan Dash, Jang-Seu Ki, Siba Prasad Adhikary, Andrea Ragusa, Mrutyunjay Jena
Antioxidants.2022; 11(2): 354. CrossRef
Whole genome sequence analysis showing unique SARS-CoV-2 lineages of B.1.524 and AU.2 in Malaysia
Ummu Afeera Zainulabid, Aini Syahida Mat Yassim, Mushtaq Hussain, Ayesha Aslam, Sharmeen Nellisa Soffian, Mohamad Shafiq Mohd Ibrahim, Norhidayah Kamarudin, Mohd Nazli Kamarulzaman, How Soon Hin, Hajar Fauzan Ahmad, Ahmed S. Abdel-Moneim
PLOS ONE.2022; 17(2): e0263678. CrossRef
Impact of COVID-19 on Malaysian dental students’ physical, mental, financial and academic concerns
Widya Lestari, Nur Hazirah Yazid, Zawin Najah Azhar, Azlini Ismail, Cortino Sukotjo
BMC Oral Health.2022;[Epub] CrossRef
Clinical characteristics and risk factors for mortality in patients with COVID-19: A retrospective nationwide study in Malaysia
Siti NA Ismail, Izzati Abdul Halim Zaki, Zakiah Mohd Noordin, Nur Sabiha Md Hussin, Long Chiau Ming, Hanis Hanum Zulkifly
Proceedings of Singapore Healthcare.2022;[Epub] CrossRef
Prevalence of Anxiety and Depression among Psychiatric Healthcare Workers during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Malaysian Perspective
Mehul Kumar Narendra Kumar, Benedict Francis, Aili Hanim Hashim, Nor Zuraida Zainal, Rusdi Abdul Rashid, Chong Guan Ng, Mahmoud Danaee, Nurulwafa Hussain, Ahmad Hatim Sulaiman
Healthcare.2022; 10(3): 532. CrossRef
Country Wise Measures in Contrast to The Spread of SARS-COV2/COVID-19
Hindustan Abdul Ahad, Haranath Chinthaginjala, Bhavani Haribabu Sai Dharani, Momin Umaira Ayisha, Chukkaluri Anu Reddy, Gandhodi Chandra Manasa, Nandini Nandini
Asian Journal of Research in Pharmaceutical Scienc.2022; : 62. CrossRef
Circadian Disruption and Occupational Toxicants Exposure Affecting the Immunity of Shift Workers During SARS CoV-2 Pandemic
Siti Hanisah Mohd Fuad, Norsham Juliana, Nor Amira Syahira Mohd Azmi, Nur Islami Mohd Fahmi Teng, Sahar Azmani, Izuddin Fahmy Abu, Srijit Das
Frontiers in Public Health.2022;[Epub] CrossRef
Addressing the COVID-19 pandemic challenges for operational adaptations of a cluster randomized controlled trial on dengue vector control in Malaysia
Mitra Saadatian-Elahi, Neal Alexander, Tim Möhlmann, Farah Diana Ariffin, Frederic Schmitt, Jason H. Richardson, Muriel Rabilloud, Nurulhusna Ab Hamid
BMC Public Health.2022;[Epub] CrossRef
Epidemiological Features of COVID-19 Patients in Terengganu State of Malaysia and the Predictors for SARS-CoV-2 Transmissibility
Hafizuddin Awang, Effah Leiylena Yaacob, Mohd Shafik Abd Majid, Azmani Wahab, Mohd Anuar Abd Rahman, Kasemani Embong
European Journal of Medical and Health Sciences.2022; 4(2): 67. CrossRef
The COVID-19 pandemic and herding behaviour among investors in Shariah-compliant stocks
Khemaies Bougatef, Imen Nejah
Journal of Islamic Accounting and Business Researc.2022; 13(5): 832. CrossRef
A state-of-the-art review on fucoidan as an antiviral agent to combat viral infections
Biswajita Pradhan, Rabindra Nayak, Srimanta Patra, Prajna Paramita Bhuyan, Pradyota Kumar Behera, Amiya Kumar Mandal, Chhandashree Behera, Jang-Seu Ki, Siba Prasad Adhikary, Davoodbasha MubarakAli, Mrutyunjay Jena
Carbohydrate Polymers.2022; 291: 119551. CrossRef
Risk Factors for Mortality among COVID-19 Patients in Besut Region, Terengganu, Malaysia
Hafizuddin Awang, Effah Leiylena Yaacob, Arfizah Ahmad Daud, Normahizan Ahmad, Muhammad Solehuddin Ishak, Nur Almas Alias, Nor Hafizah Ghazali, Nur Farihin Ismail, Mohd Adli Abd Khalim, Saidah Adilah Mohamed Yusof, Siti Fatimah Samsury, Mohd Anuar Abd R
European Journal of Medical and Health Sciences.2022; 4(3): 1. CrossRef
Extending the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology for COVID-19 Contact Tracing Application by Malaysian Users
Mahmood Alshami, Rawad Abdulghafor, Abdulaziz Aborujilah
Sustainability.2022; 14(11): 6811. CrossRef
The Meaning in Life and Courage of Malaysian Frontliners During COVID-19
Kalaivanan Syasyila, Lim Lee Gin, Zhooriyati Sehu Mohamad
Pertanika Journal of Social Sciences and Humanitie.2022; 30(2): 623. CrossRef
Individual mobility pattern in Malaysia during COVID‐19 Recovery Movement Control Order partial lockdown
Uznir Ujang, Suhaibah Azri
Geo: Geography and Environment.2022;[Epub] CrossRef
Transmission parameters of coronavirus disease 2019 in South Asian countries
Mridul Sannyal, Abul Mukid Md. Mukaddes
Osong Public Health and Research Perspectives.2022; 13(3): 191. CrossRef
Psychological First Aid Training during COVID-19 Pandemic: Evaluation of the Training Effects of Conducting Virtual Psychological First Aid Training in Malaysia
Sue Kiat Tye, Hariyati Sharima Abdul Majid, Abdul Rahman Ahmad Badayai
Malaysian Journal Of Psychiatry.2022; 31(1): 28. CrossRef
A network analysis and support vector regression approaches for visualising and predicting the COVID-19 outbreak in Malaysia
Siti Nurhidayah Sharin, Mohamad Khairil Radzali, Muhamad Shirwan Abdullah Sani
Healthcare Analytics.2022; 2: 100080. CrossRef
Incidence and prevalence of psoriasis in multiethnic Johor Bahru, Malaysia: a population-based cohort study using electronic health data routinely captured in the Teleprimary Care (TPC®) clinical information system from 2010 to 2020
Siew Eng Choon, Alison K. Wright, Christopher E.M. Griffiths, Kwee Eng Tey, Kit Wan Wong, Yoong Wei Lee, Ushananthiny Suvelayutnan, Jeevitha Mariapun, Darren M. Ashcroft
British Journal of Dermatology.2022; 187(5): 713. CrossRef
A two-year comparative assessment of retention of arch width increases between modified vacuum-formed and Hawley retainers: a multi-center randomized clinical trial
Asma Ashari, Nik Mukhriz Nik Mustapha, Jonathan Jun Xian Yuen, Zhi Kuan Saw, May Nak Lau, Lew Xian, Alizae Marny Fadzlin Syed Mohamed, Rohaya Megat Abdul Wahab, Chiew Kit Yeoh, Malathi Deva Tata, Sindhu Sinnasamy
Progress in Orthodontics.2022;[Epub] CrossRef
Methods of optical spectroscopy in detection of virus in infected samples: A review
Muhammad Izzuddin Rumaling, Fuei Pien Chee, Abdullah Bade, Nur Hasshima Hasbi, Sylvia Daim, Floressy Juhim, Mivolil Duinong, Rosfayanti Rasmidi
Heliyon.2022; 8(9): e10472. CrossRef
Impact of Aerobic and Strengthening Exercise on Quality of Life (QOL), Mental Health and Physical Performance of Elderly People Residing at Old Age Homes
Theingi Maung Maung, Timsi Jain, Jagannathan Madhanagopal, Sawri Rajan L. Rajagopal Naidu, Hnin Pwint Phyu, Win Myint Oo
Sustainability.2022; 14(17): 10881. CrossRef
Semiotic Analysis of Three QSR Instagram Posts During COVID-19 Outbreak
Nazima Versay Kudus, Che Nooryohana Zulkifli, Noraziah Mohd Amin
Pertanika Journal of Social Sciences and Humanitie.2022; 30(3): 1383. CrossRef
Prevalence of Anxiety and Burnout, and Coping Mechanisms among Clinical Year Medical Undergraduate Students in Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic
Ke Ran Tee, Abdul Samat Ismail, Yong Heng Ang, Hidayah Husna Hishamuddin, Vinneeshah Jacob Paul, Azimatun Noor Aizuddin, Ida Zarina Zaini
International Journal of Environmental Research an.2022; 19(20): 13010. CrossRef
Impact of oil prices on the Islamic and conventional stock indexes’ performance in Malaysia during the COVID-19 pandemic: Fresh evidence from the wavelet-based approach
Ali Burhan Khan, Arshian Sharif, Muhammad Saif Ul Islam, Anis Ali, Muhammad Fareed, Maria Zulfaqar
Frontiers in Energy Research.2022;[Epub] CrossRef
Incidence, Prevalence, and Sources of COVID-19 Infection among Healthcare Workers in Hospitals in Malaysia
Abdul Aziz Harith, Mohd Hafiz Ab Gani, Robin Griffiths, Azlihanis Abdul Hadi, Nor Aishah Abu Bakar, Julia Myers, Maznieda Mahjom, Rosnawati Muhamad Robat, Muhammad Zulfakhar Zubir
International Journal of Environmental Research an.2022; 19(19): 12485. CrossRef
Estimating the infection burden of COVID-19 in Malaysia
Vivek Jason Jayaraj, Chiu-Wan Ng, Awang Bulgiba, Maheshwara Rao Appannan, Sanjay Rampal, Pedro F. C. Vasconcelos
PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases.2022; 16(11): e0010887. CrossRef
Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic in Malaysia: A Critical Survey
Noramalina Abdullah, Nur Zatil Ismah Hashim, Intan Sorfina Zainal Abidin, Sarah Madihah Mohd Shazali
Pertanika Journal of Social Sciences and Humanitie.2022; 30(4): 1857. CrossRef
Coping Mechanisms as a Predictor of Fear of COVID-19 and Quality of Life: A Malaysian Nationwide Survey
Siew Koon Chong, Tuan Sharipah Tuan Hadi, Wan Xi Ong, Ruzila Ali, Seng Kit Choy, Thandani Kanchan, Ling Shiao Ling, Yoong Mei Theng, Poh Yih Chew, Madihah Shukri
Malaysian Journal Of Psychiatry.2022; 31(2): 84. CrossRef
Population-level public mental health intervention via interdisciplinary COVID-19 health crisis communication: how can occupational therapists contribute?
J. Y. Teoh
World Federation of Occupational Therapists Bullet.2021; 77(1): 10. CrossRef
Nasopharyngeal diffuse large B-cells lymphoma causing acute airway obstruction amid COVID-19 crisis: an anaesthetist’s nightmare
Tat Boon Yeap, Ming Kai Teah, Yen Ju Joanne Quay, Melvin Teck Fui Wong
BMJ Case Reports.2021; 14(1): e241008. CrossRef
Multistakeholder Participation in Disaster Management—The Case of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Sigamani Panneer, Komali Kantamaneni, Robert Ramesh Babu Pushparaj, Sulochana Shekhar, Lekha Bhat, Louis Rice
Healthcare.2021; 9(2): 203. CrossRef
Factors Influencing Asia-Pacific Countries’ Success Level in Curbing COVID-19: A Review Using a Social–Ecological System (SES) Framework
Gabriel Hoh Teck Ling, Nur Amiera binti Md Suhud, Pau Chung Leng, Lee Bak Yeo, Chin Tiong Cheng, Mohd Hamdan Haji Ahmad, Ak Mohd Rafiq Ak Matusin
International Journal of Environmental Research an.2021; 18(4): 1704. CrossRef
Exploring the Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on University Students’ Learning Life: An Integrated Conceptual Motivational Model for Sustainable and Healthy Online Learning
Nabil Hasan Al-Kumaim, Abdulsalam K. Alhazmi, Fathey Mohammed, Nadhmi A. Gazem, Muhammad Salman Shabbir, Yousef Fazea
Sustainability.2021; 13(5): 2546. CrossRef
Escalating progression of mental health disorders during the COVID-19 pandemic: Evidence from a nationwide survey
Li Ping Wong, Haridah Alias, Afiqah Alyaa Md Fuzi, Intan Sofia Omar, Azmawaty Mohamad Nor, Maw Pin Tan, Diana Lea Baranovich, Che Zarrina Saari, Sareena Hanim Hamzah, Ku Wing Cheong, Chiew Hwa Poon, Vimala Ramoo, Chong Chin Che, Kyaimon Myint, Suria Zainu
PLOS ONE.2021; 16(3): e0248916. CrossRef
Scenario analysis of COVID-19 transmission dynamics in Malaysia with the possibility of reinfection and limited medical resources scenarios
Amer M. Salman, Issam Ahmed, Mohd Hafiz Mohd, Mohammad Subhi Jamiluddin, Mohammed Ali Dheyab
Computers in Biology and Medicine.2021; 133: 104372. CrossRef
Construction Sector Contribution to Economic Stability: Malaysian GDP Distribution
Wesam Salah Alaloul, Muhammad Ali Musarat, Muhammad Babar Ali Rabbani, Qaiser Iqbal, Ahsen Maqsoom, Waqas Farooq
Sustainability.2021; 13(9): 5012. CrossRef
Effects of Location-Specific Meteorological Factors on COVID-19 Daily Infection in a Tropical Climate: A Case of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Ezekiel Kaura Makama, Hwee San Lim, Pedro Jiménez-Guerrero
Advances in Meteorology.2021; 2021: 1. CrossRef
Can algae contribute to the war with Covid-19?
Wen Yi Chia, Hanz Kok, Kit Wayne Chew, Sze Shin Low, Pau Loke Show
Bioengineered.2021; 12(1): 1226. CrossRef
Public KAP towards COVID-19 and Antibiotics Resistance: A Malaysian Survey of Knowledge and Awareness
Chee Tao Chang, Ming Lee, Jason Choong Yin Lee, Nicholas Chor Teng Lee, Tsu Yin Ng, Asrul Akmal Shafie, Kah Shuen Thong
International Journal of Environmental Research an.2021; 18(8): 3964. CrossRef
Depression and Suicidal Ideation in a Sample of Malaysian Healthcare Workers: A Preliminary Study During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Hajar Mohd Salleh Sahimi, Tuti Iryani Mohd Daud, Lai Fong Chan, Shamsul Azhar Shah, Farynna Hana Ab Rahman, Nik Ruzyanei Nik Jaafar
Frontiers in Psychiatry.2021;[Epub] CrossRef
The Influence of COVID-19-Induced Daily Activities on Health Parameters—A Case Study in Malaysia
Mujahid Ali, Afonso R. G. de Azevedo, Markssuel T. Marvila, Muhammad Imran Khan, Abdul Muhaimin Memon, Faisal Masood, Najib Mohammed Yahya Almahbashi, Muhammad Kashif Shad, Mudassir Ali Khan, Roman Fediuk, Roman Timokhin, Aleksey Borovkov, Ihtisham Ul Haq
Sustainability.2021; 13(13): 7465. CrossRef
COVID-19 Death Risk Assessment in Iran using Artificial Neural Network
R Adebayo Ifeoluwapo, Eko Supriyanto, Sahar Taheri
Journal of Physics: Conference Series.2021; 1964(6): 062117. CrossRef
Piecewise linear modelling and change-point analysis of COVID-19 outbreak in Malaysia
P Phang, N A Abdul Taib, R Safii, J Labadin
Journal of Physics: Conference Series.2021; 1988(1): 012105. CrossRef
Proposal for development of a guideline in maintaining quality cancer care during and post-covid-19 in an upper middle-income country with universal health coverage
Soo-Peng Teoh, Ros Suzanna Bustamam, Feisul Idzwan Mustapha, Cheng-Har Yip, Marniza Saad, Saunthari Somasundaram, Puteri Norliza Megat Ramli, Nik Daliana Nik Farid, Nirmala Bhoo-Pathy
Journal of Cancer Policy.2021; 30: 100300. CrossRef
Psychological distress, fear and coping among Malaysians during the COVID-19 pandemic
Ahmed Suparno Bahar Moni, Shalimar Abdullah, Mohammad Farris Iman Leong Bin Abdullah, Mohammed Shahjahan Kabir, Sheikh M. Alif, Farhana Sultana, Masudus Salehin, Sheikh Mohammed Shariful Islam, Wendy Cross, Muhammad Aziz Rahman, Alessio Gori
PLOS ONE.2021; 16(9): e0257304. CrossRef
Depression and anxiety in Malaysian population during third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic
Roy Rillera Marzo, Vineet Vinay, Rafidah Bahari, Shekhar Chauhan, Deborah Anak Fo Ming, Stephanie Fernandez A/P. Nelson Fernandez, Colin Cornelius Pereira Johnson, Agkesh Qumar A/L Thivakaran, Mohammad Meshbahur Rahman, Sonu Goel
Clinical Epidemiology and Global Health.2021; 12: 100868. CrossRef
The Cross-Sectional Relations of COVID-19 Fear and Stress to Psychological Distress among Frontline Healthcare Workers in Selangor, Malaysia
Natasha Subhas, Nicholas Tze-Ping Pang, Wei-Cheng Chua, Assis Kamu, Chong-Mun Ho, Isabel Shamini David, William Wei-Liang Goh, Yogaraja Indran Gunasegaran, Kit-Aun Tan
International Journal of Environmental Research an.2021; 18(19): 10182. CrossRef
IoT MEMS: IoT-Based Paradigm for Medical Equipment Management Systems of ICUs in Light of COVID-19 Outbreak
Abdulaziz Aborujilah, Abubaker-Eseddig Fathi Mahmoud Elsebaie, Shamsul Anuar Mokhtar
IEEE Access.2021; 9: 131120. CrossRef
On Analyzing Capnogram as a Novel Method for Screening COVID-19: A Review on Assessment Methods for COVID-19
M. B. Malarvili, Mushikiwabeza Alexie, Nadhira Dahari, Anhar Kamarudin
Life.2021; 11(10): 1101. CrossRef
The Epidemiology of COVID-19 in Malaysia
Vivek Jason Jayaraj, Sanjay Rampal, Chiu-Wan Ng, Diane Woei Quan Chong
The Lancet Regional Health - Western Pacific.2021; 17: 100295. CrossRef
Infectious Bronchitis Virus (Gammacoronavirus) in Poultry Farming: Vaccination, Immune Response and Measures for Mitigation
Md. Safiul Alam Bhuiyan, Zarina Amin, Kenneth Francis Rodrigues, Suryani Saallah, Sharifudin Md. Shaarani, Subir Sarker, Shafiquzzaman Siddiquee
Veterinary Sciences.2021; 8(11): 273. CrossRef
Immunomodulation and Regenerative Capacity of MSCs for Long-COVID
Xin Ya Loke, Siti A. M. Imran, Gee Jun Tye, Wan Safwani Wan Kamarul Zaman, Fazlina Nordin
International Journal of Molecular Sciences.2021; 22(22): 12421. CrossRef
Global Pandemic as a Result of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Outbreak: A Biomedical Perspective
Charles Arvind Sethuraman Vairavan, Devarani Rameshnathan, Nagaraja Suryadevara, Gnanendra Shanmugam
Journal of Pure and Applied Microbiology.2021; 15(4): 1759. CrossRef
Clinician Wellness—Self-Care for Staying Healthy: Acupressure for Mental Wellness
Yun Jin Kim
Alternative and Complementary Therapies.2021; 27(6): 265. CrossRef
Knowledge, Perceived Risk, and Preventive Behaviors amidst Covid-19 Pandemic among Dental Students in Malaysia
Azlini Ismail, Nur Hanisah Ismail, Nur Yasrin Maisarah Abu Kassim, Widya Lestari, Ahmad Faisal Ismail, Cortino Sukotjo
Dentistry Journal.2021; 9(12): 151. CrossRef
Assessment of Impact of Containment During the COVID-19 Epidemic and Coping Behaviours Using Newly Developed Assessment Tools
Li Ping Wong, Haridah Alias, Mahmoud Danaee, Hai Yen Lee, Kit Mun Tan, Peter Seah Keng Tok, Mustakiza Muslimin, Sazaly AbuBakar, Yulan Lin, Zhijian Hu
Frontiers in Public Health.2021;[Epub] CrossRef
Doctors’ Mental Health in the Midst of COVID-19 Pandemic: The Roles of Work Demands and Recovery Experiences
Mohd Fadhli Mohd Fauzi, Hanizah Mohd Yusoff, Rosnawati Muhamad Robat, Nur Adibah Mat Saruan, Khairil Idham Ismail, Ahmad Firdaus Mohd Haris
International Journal of Environmental Research an.2020; 17(19): 7340. CrossRef
SARS-CoV-2 lineage B.6 was the major contributor to early pandemic transmission in Malaysia
Yoong Min Chong, I-Ching Sam, Jennifer Chong, Maria Kahar Bador, Sasheela Ponnampalavanar, Sharifah Faridah Syed Omar, Adeeba Kamarulzaman, Vijayan Munusamy, Chee Kuan Wong, Fadhil Hadi Jamaluddin, Yoke Fun Chan, Susanna Kar Pui Lau
PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases.2020; 14(11): e0008744. CrossRef
Epidemiological Characteristics of COVID-19 in Seremban, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia
Mohd ‘Ammar Ihsan Ahmad Zamzuri, Farah Edura Ibrahim, Muhammad Alimin Mat Reffien, Mohd Fathulzhafran Mohamed Hanan, Muhamad Hazizi Muhamad Dasani, Noor Khalili Mohd Ali, Hasanain Faisal Ghazi, Mohd Rohaizat Hassan
Open Access Macedonian Journal of Medical Sciences.2020; 8(T1): 471. CrossRef

Cite

CITE

export

Copy Download

Format
XML Download

Download Citation

Download a citation file in RIS format that can be imported by all major citation management software, including EndNote, ProCite, RefWorks, and Reference Manager.

Format:

RIS — For EndNote, ProCite, RefWorks, and most other reference management software
BibTeX — For JabRef, BibDesk, and other BibTeX-specific software

Include:

Citation for the content below
Citation and abstract for the content below

COVID-19 Outbreak in Malaysia

Osong Public Health Res Perspect. 2020;11(3):93-100. Published online June 1, 2020

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24171/j.phrp.2020.11.3.08

Download Citation

Download a citation file in RIS format that can be imported by all major citation management software, including EndNote, ProCite, RefWorks, and Reference Manager.

Format:

RIS — For EndNote, ProCite, RefWorks, and most other reference management software
bib — For JabRef, BibDesk, and other BibTeX-specific software

Include:

Citation for the content below
Citation and abstract for the content below

COVID-19 Outbreak in Malaysia

Osong Public Health Res Perspect. 2020;11(3):93-100. Published online June 1, 2020

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24171/j.phrp.2020.11.3.08

COVID-19 Outbreak in Malaysia

Table 1

	SARS-CoV	MERS-SARS	SARS-CoV-2
Coronaviriniae Genera	b-coronavirus, lineage B	b-coronavirus, lineage C	b-coronavirus, lineage B
Virus type	RNA virus	RNA virus	RNA virus
Total length of DNA sequence	29,751	30,111	29,903
Discovery (y)	2003	2012	2019
Origin	Guangdong province, China	Arabian Peninsula	Hubei province, China
Total No. of cases worldwide (WHO report)	> 8,000	2,494	2,230,439 (Till 17^th April 2020)
Total No. of affected countries (WHO report)	26	27	210
Total number of death cases (WHO report)	916	858	150,837 (As of 17^th April 2020)
Mortality	>10%	34.4%	2.10%
Transmission mode	-Droplets (coughing and sneezing) -Close contact with an infected person	-Droplets (coughing and sneezing) -Close contact with an infected person	-Droplets (coughing and sneezing) -Close contact with an infected person or even asymptomatic ones
Transmission medium	Animal to human Human to human	Animal to human Human to human	Animal to human Human to human
Transmission region	Globally	Regionally	Globally
Cellular receptor	Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE 2)	Dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DDP4)	Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2)
Reservoir	Palm Civets and Bats	Bats and Camels	Bats
Receptor binding domain (RBD)	C-domain	C-domain	C-domain
IFN-γ inhibitor	Yes	Yes	Unknown
Viral replication efficiency	High	Higher	Higher
Pathogenicity	Higher	High	High
Clinical symptoms (WHO report)	Fever, malaise, myalgia, headache, diarrhea, and shivering (rigors)	Fever, cough, and shortness of breath	Fever, tiredness, and dry cough
Prevention	-Hand wash -Wear mask and gloves -Physical distancing	-Hand wash -Wear mask and glove -Physical distancing	-Hand wash -Wear mask and gloves -Physical distancing
Treatment	Glucocorticoid and interferon	No vaccine or specific treatment	No specific antiviral treatment

Table 2

Drugs and their potential mechanisms for inhibiting SARS-CoV-2 infection in humans.

Drugs	Mechanism
Remdesivir	Blocks viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase activity (inhibits RNA replication from the RNA template)
Chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine	Inhibits endocytosis by increasing the acidity in endosomes and prevents the entry of virus into the host cell.
Lopinavir and ritonavir	Inhibits RNA translation process
Lopinavir and ritonavir plus interferon-beta	Inhibits viral replication
Camostat mesylate	Inhibits enzymatic activity of type II transmembrane serine protease (TMPRSS2) which is important for infectious viral entry into the host cell
Darunavir	Blocks viral replication
BCR-ABL kinase inhibitor imatinib	Inhibits fusion of virions with the endosomal membrane
Arbidol	Inhibits membrane fusion of the viral envelope
Ribavarin	Inhibits viral RNA synthesis and mRNA capping
Ribavirin plus interferon-beta	Shuts down viral replication
Umifenovir	Inhibits fusion of virions with the endosomal membrane
Oseltamivir	Inhibits RNA translation process
Interferon-beta	Triggers the activation of innate antiviral immunity
Favipiravir	Blocks viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase activity (inhibits RNA replication from RNA template)
Monoclonal antibodies	Inhibits viral infection via binding to the virus

SARS-CoV-2 = severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2.

Table 1 The similarities and differences between the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV), the Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) and the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2).

Table 2 Drugs and their potential mechanisms for inhibiting SARS-CoV-2 infection in humans.

SARS-CoV-2 = severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2.

Articles

Page Path

COVID-19 Outbreak in Malaysia

Full Article

Abstract

Introduction

1. SARS-CoV-2

1.1. Morphology and pathogenic mechanism

1.2. Similarities and differences between SARS-CoV, MERS-SARS and SARS-CoV-2

1.3. Transmission

1.4. Symptoms

1.5. Treatment

1.6. Preventive measures

2. COVID-19 in Malaysia

2.1. Treatment of COVID-19 in Malaysia

2.2. Preventive measures in Malaysia

2.3. Movement Control Order (MCO) in Malaysia

2.4. Psychological stress during pandemic outbreak of COVID-19 in Malaysia

Conclusion

Acknowledgments

Article information

References

Figure & Data

References

Citations

CITE

Download Citation

Format:

Include:

Table 1

Table 2

About

Browse articles

Editorial policies

For authors