Hi there. Thank you for your question.

First and foremost, I understand your concern regarding this issue of coronavirus since there’s an outbreak of the virus.

Regarding your question, first of all you are encouraged to answer the quiz on Risk Assessment for COVID-19 to evaluate your mother’s health status in regards to this disease. After completing this quiz, she will be classified into several categories with an advice on the next appropriate steps that should be taken.

In my opinion, given the situation explained by you, you can first monitor your mother’s symptoms at home. Apart from that, please watch out other symptoms that might suggest coronavirus such as:

• Fever

• Coughing

• Shortness of breath

• Body ache

• Sore throat

• Headache

• Runny nose

In case the symptoms get worse or your brother result come out to be positive, please immediately seek medical attention.

In the meantime please adhere to these precaution guidelines from Centre of Disease Control (CDC) to prevent this virus:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

• Stay home when you are sick.

• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.

• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces

You may consult a MOH doctor by clicking Ask Doctor at the Ministry of Health website (COVID-19 Portal) to ask any health issues related to COVID-19 starting from 8.30 am to 5.00 pm.

After 5.00 pm till 12.00 am, please direct your enquiries to our DoctorOnCall website at this link https://www.doctoroncall.com.my/tanya/.

I hope your mom will get well soon and thank you.